Packaging Specialist

Dutchman Hospitality Group; Indiana, Northern (PA, KY); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Essenhaus Foods in Middlebury, IN is seeking a Packaging Specialist to manage final packaging steps, case packing, palletizing, and shipment prep.

The role requires diligent, detail-oriented work in a fast-paced environment, with emphasis on safety, quality, and cleanliness on the manufacturing floor. No advanced degree required; prior packaging experience is a plus, and the schedule runs Monday–Thursday with occasional Fridays.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience in food manufacturing or packaging is a plus.
• Ability to stand, lift, and move up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Inspect finished bags for quality, seal integrity, and labeling.
• Package into cases according to case count standards.
• Stack cases on pallets following pallet patterns.
• Wrap pallets securely with pallet wrapping equipment.
• Record daily scrap and damaged product.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area daily.
• Assist with line changeovers, start-up, and shutdown.
• Communicate equipment issues or material shortages to leadership.

Skills

Attention to detail

Quality inspection

Lift up to 50 lbs

Team player

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Title: Packaging Specialist

Department: Production

Reports To: Production Lead / Production Manager

Location: Middlebury, IN

Position Summary:

The Packaging Specialist responsible for the final stages of the production process, ensuring all products are packaged, boxed, palletized, and prepared for shipment in a safe, consistent, and efficient manner. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to maintaining Essenhaus Foods’ high standards of quality and cleanliness.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Inspect finished bags of product for quality, seal integrity, and proper labeling.
2. Place finished bags into cases accurately and efficiently according to case count standards.
3. Ensure all cases are sealed properly and stacked neatly on pallets following pallet pattern requirements.
4. Operate pallet wrapping equipment and ensure all finished pallets are securely wrapped and labeled.
5. Load case erector with corrugated materials and monitor its operation to ensure consistent case supply.
6. Record and track daily scrap and damaged product using company log sheets or digital systems.
7. Maintain a clean and organized work area, including sweeping, wiping surfaces, and cleaning equipment daily.
8. Assist with line changeovers, start-up, and shutdown as directed by the Production Lead.
9. Follow all safety, food safety, and quality policies and procedures.
10. Communicate any equipment malfunctions, material shortages, or quality concerns to the Production Lead or Production Manager immediately.
11. Perform additional tasks as assigned to support the production team.

Qualifications:

1. High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
2. Prior experience in food manufacturing or packaging is a plus but not required.
3. Ability to stand, lift, and move up to 50 lbs throughout the shift.
4. Strong attention to detail and ability to identify packaging defects.
5. Basic understanding of production line operations and safety procedures.
6. Reliable, punctual, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Work Schedule:

1. Monday–Thursday, 32–40 hours per week
2. Occasional Fridays as needed

Work Environment:

1. Manufacturing floor environment with moderate noise and movement of machinery.
2. Frequent standing, bending, lifting, and repetitive motions required.