Automation Operator I - Day Shift Seed Packing

Johnny's Selected Seeds•Winslow, ME

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Johnny's Selected Seeds has an immediate opening for a full-time, year-round Automation Operator I – Seed Packing at its Winslow, Maine facility. The position supports automated seed packaging operations by setting up, operating, monitoring, troubleshooting, cleaning, and optimizing automation equipment to ensure accurate and efficient order fulfillment. The operator works with Seed Packing, Replenishment, Maintenance, Quality, and IT teams to maintain production standards, minimize downtime, and support continuous improvement. The role is cross-functional and also includes tasks such as equipment maintenance, systems troubleshooting, gathering seed, and finished-goods put-away. When automated workload changes, the operator performs standard Seed Packing OA II duties, including hand packing seed. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 5:50 a.m. to 2:20 p.m., with overtime as needed. The starting pay is $21.63 per hour. This role requires technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, quality, and productivity in a fast-paced production environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Strong computer, math, and organizational skills.
Ability to learn, operate, and troubleshoot automated seed-packing equipment and associated production systems.
Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn equipment operation, setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy.
Ability to create, read, and follow written instructions, SOPs, production schedules, and technical documentation.
Ability to accurately enter, track, and document production information using a computer.
Basic math skills for measurements, counts, production calculations, and inventory tracking.
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining productivity and quality standards.
Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a team environment.
Ability to maintain accurate documentation and records.
Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and compliance with company policies.
Willingness to learn new technologies and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and schedule adjustments as business needs require.
Ability to read, communicate, and work with numbers.
Ability to bend, pull, push, and repetitively lift up to 70 pounds.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, up to 80% of the workday.
Ability to perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements; climb stationary ladders and access equipment platforms; and reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, and maneuver around production equipment.
Ability to visually inspect products, packaging, labels, and machine operation accurately and to hear machine alarms, equipment notifications, and verbal instructions in a manufacturing environment.
Ability to work safely around moving mechanical equipment and follow lockout/tagout and other safety procedures.
Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment, adapt to changing priorities, and work in varying warehouse and production conditions, including dust, noise, and seasonal temperature fluctuations.

Nice To Haves

Previous manufacturing, production, packaging, automation, or machine-operation experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Adhere to and promote company safety practices and support the company's mission and values.
Monitor departmental workflow to help ensure efficient operations and accurate product inventories.
Communicate effectively with all departments and maintain a positive attitude in the work environment.
Operate automated seed-packing equipment and related production systems according to safety, quality, and productivity standards.
Monitor equipment performance and adjust equipment as needed to maintain packaging accuracy, product quality, and throughput.
Set up machines, perform changeovers and calibrations, and conduct basic troubleshooting for varying products and packaging requirements.
Document production activities, machine settings, downtime events, and other operational records accurately.
Conduct routine quality checks of seed counts, package weights, labels, and overall package quality.
Identify equipment issues and coordinate with Maintenance and Engineering to resolve mechanical, electrical, or operational concerns.
Assist with preventive maintenance, cleaning, inspections, and equipment upkeep.
Follow standard operating procedures, work instructions, and safety protocols.
Monitor packaging-material inventories and notify appropriate personnel when replenishment is needed.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Support process-improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve equipment performance.
Train and assist team members, as assigned, in the safe and effective operation of seed-packing automation equipment.
Collaborate with team members and other departments to meet production schedules and customer-service goals.
Follow processes and procedures applicable to Seed Packing OA II during downtime, including hand packing seed as needed.
Perform other assigned duties and operational tasks to support changing business needs.