Packaging Operator - 1st Shift

Proper-Beverage-Co.; Kentwood (MI); On-site; USD 19,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Proper Beverage Company in Kentwood, MI is hiring a Packaging Operator to run packaging lines, monitor equipment, and ensure safe, quality packaging. This full-time, 1st shift role supports production teammates and may backfill filler operations when needed.

You will work 7am–4pm, Monday–Friday, with opportunities to grow and contribute to continuous improvement in a fast-paced team environment.

Experience with forklift is a plus, as are strong attention to detail and safety discipline.

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail.
• Forklift experience preferred.
• Experience with packaging equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Physical stamina to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Commitment to following safety protocols and company policies.

Responsibilities

• Operate packaging equipment and monitor performance.
• Maintain pallets, labeling, counts, and organization.
• Support Variety Pack line as needed.
• Provide basic troubleshooting and ensure material supply.
• Back up Filler operations when required.
• Follow SOPs and safety protocols.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary production area.
• Collaborate with Quality Control and Logistics.
• All other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Forklift experience

Packaging equipment

Troubleshooting

Follow instructions

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Safety compliance

Job description

At Proper Beverage Company, we believe in doing things the right way - with integrity, precision, and a focus on quality. As a rapidly growing, locally owned business, our mission is to craft beverages that our partners and their customers can trust and enjoy. Guided by our vision to be a leader in the beverage industry, we're driven by innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Led by a hands-on CEO and supported by a dedicated leadership team, Proper Beverage is a place where hard work is recognized, career growth is encouraged, and every employee has the opportunity to make a real impact. We offer competitive pay, advancement opportunities, and a collaborative environment where people can thrive both personally and professionally.

Job Information

Job Title

Packaging Operator

Location

Company

Department

Production

Reports To

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Job Summary

The Packaging Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring packaging equipment to ensure the efficient, safe, and high-quality packaging of products. This role is focused on machinery and equipment performance but also requires flexibility to support the Production Associates as needed. In addition, the Packaging Operator will be trained on filler operations and serve as a backup for the Filler Operator role when required. The Packaging Operator works closely with production team members, Quality Control, and supervisors to maintain consistent output and meet daily production goals.

This is a full-time, 1st shift position. The schedule is Monday through Friday from 7am to 4pm.

Responsibilities

End-of-Line Production Support

• Remove finished goods from the production line and stack them securely on pallets.
• Ensure accurate labeling, counts, and organization of pallets for storage or shipment.
• Assist with operational support of the Variety Pack line as needed.

Core Production Duties

• Operate packaging equipment, including monitoring and basic troubleshooting.
• Ensure adequate supply of packaging materials such as cardboard to prevent production delays.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as Quality Control and Logistics, to coordinate activities, communicate issues, and support continuous production flow.

Specialized Duties

• Maintain a working knowledge of Filler operations to step in as backup when needed.
• Perform duties near machinery, forklift trucks, and other ancillary production activities.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment for yourself and your colleagues.
• Work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Safety and Cleanliness

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the production area to uphold sanitation standards and prevent contamination.
• Adhere to all company safety policies to prevent accidents and contamination.

All other duties as assigned

Experience & Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail
• Experience operating a forklift, preferred
• Experience with or willingness to learn packaging equipment
• Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues
• Ability to follow instructions accurately
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Physical stamina to perform repetitive tasks and lift up to 50 pounds
• Commitment to following safety protocols and company policies.