PRODUCTION - SPICE - UNION MACHINE OPERATOR

Sauer Brands, Inc.; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Sauer Brands, Inc. in Richmond, VA is seeking a Machine Operator for 1st shift (6:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Mon–Thu). You will set up, operate, monitor, and clean spice production equipment to blend, fill, label, package, and case products, with emphasis on quality and safety.

You must pass a pre-employment background and drug test. Ideal candidates have a high school diploma and 3–5 years of machine operation experience in food manufacturing, plus reliable teamwork and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3–5 years of machine operation experience in production/food manufacturing.
• Able to stand, lift up to 30 lbs., and pass a background and drug test.
• Reliable, safety-focused team player with good communication.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate spice blending, filling, labeling, sealing, packaging, or case-packing equipment.
• Perform start-up checks, line clearances, and basic changeovers.
• Monitor weights, packaging quality, lot codes, labels, and finished cases.
• Report equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or quality issues.
• Follow GMPs, allergen controls, sanitation procedures, and batch records.
• Complete production, quality, downtime, and cleaning documentation.
• Maintain clean work area and assist with end-of-run housekeeping.
• Wear PPE and support team goals through dependable performance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Safety consciousness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

MACHINE OPERATOR

Shift: 6 AM to 4:30 p.m. Mon through Thursday

Pay Rate: $25.50/hr

At Sauer Brands, we bring flavor to people’s lives every day, in every home, and in every kitchen. Founded in Richmond in 1887, Sauer Brands has grown into a leading flavor company with a portfolio that includes Duke’s Mayonnaise, The Spice Hunter, Kernel Season’s, Mateo’s, and Sauer’s.

The hours of operation for the 1st Shift Operations Associate are from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

You must be able to pass a pre-employment background and drug test upon offer.

Position Overview

The Machine Operator safely sets up, operates, monitors, and cleans production equipment used to blend, fill, package, label, and case spice products. This role helps ensure products are made accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with quality, food safety, sanitation, and safety standards.

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Set up and operate assigned spice blending, filling, labeling, sealing, packaging, or case-packing equipment.
• Perform start-up checks, line clearances, basic changeovers, and routine equipment adjustments to support production schedules.
• Monitor equipment performance, product flow, weights, packaging quality, lot codes, labels, and finished cases for accuracy and quality.
• Identify and resolve minor jams or issues when trained to do so; promptly report equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or quality issues to the supervisor or maintenance team.
• Follow batch records, formulas, work instructions, GMPs, allergen controls, sanitation procedures, and food safety requirements.
• Accurately complete required production, quality, downtime, and cleaning documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and assist with equipment cleaning, sanitation, and end-of-run housekeeping.
• Work safely, use required personal protective equipment, and support team goals through clear communication and dependable performance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Performance Standards

• Operate equipment safely and efficiently while meeting production, quality, and sanitation expectations.
• Maintain accurate documentation and communicate issues quickly and professionally.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and inspection-ready.
• Follow all safety rules, GMPs, food safety procedures, and company policies.
• Demonstrate dependable attendance, teamwork, accountability, and attention to detail.

What We Are Looking For

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 3-5 years of experience in machine operation in a production, packaging, or food manufacturing environment.
• Reliable, safety-focused team player with good communication, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality.
• Able to operate and monitor production equipment, follow work instructions, complete basic adjustments, and report equipment, quality, or safety concerns.
• Physical and compliance requirements: Able to stand, bend, reach, perform repetitive tasks, lift up to 30 lbs., wear required PPE, and pass a background check and drug test upon offer.

Sauer Brands, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, gender, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected status.