Bottling Machine Operator

HR Affiliates•Louisville, KY

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Bottling Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, adjusting, and maintaining bottling and packaging equipment used in the production of 50ml, 200ml, 750ml and 16 OZ. beverage products. The operator is responsible for maintaining safe and efficient production while meeting established quality, throughput, GMP, and housekeeping standards. This position requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, teamwork, and the ability to identify and communicate equipment or quality issues before they impact production.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Previous manufacturing, bottling, packaging, or machine-operation experience preferred.
Beverage, food, or alcohol production experience is a plus.
Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
Ability to read and follow SOPs, work instructions, and safety procedures.
Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a production team.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.
Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential.
Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment and adjust to changing production priorities.

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor the complete bottling line, may include: Bottle unscrambler/feed systems, Filler, Filler stems and associated change parts, Capper/corker, Labeler, Vision inspection systems, Steamer, Sleever, Case packer and packaging equipment, Conveyors and accumulation systems.
Operate equipment for multiple package sizes, including 50ml, 200ml, 750ml and 16 OZ products.
Perform equipment start-up, shutdown, changeover, and line clearance procedures.
Make routine machine adjustments to maintain proper speed, fill levels, labeling, capping, and product quality.
Install and remove change parts during product and package-size changeovers.
Monitor filler performance, including fill levels, bottle presentation, and filler stem operation.
Monitor the sleever for proper operation and immediately report abnormal conditions.
Monitor the steamer and ensure proper operation and product flow.
Operate and monitor vision inspection systems to identify bottle, fill, cap, label, and packaging defects.
Monitor the labeler for proper label placement, alignment, and adhesion.
Monitor conveyors and accumulation areas to prevent jams and production interruptions.
Safely clear minor jams and make approved operational adjustments.
Communicate mechanical issues to Maintenance and assist with troubleshooting when properly trained.
Perform routine quality checks throughout production runs.
Inspect bottles, closures, labels, fill levels, packaging, and finished cases.
Identify and remove defective product from the production line.
Immediately communicate quality issues to the appropriate supervisor or Quality personnel.
Maintain accurate production and quality records.
Follow all product specifications, SOPs, GMPs, and quality requirements.
Ensure product is produced consistently and meets established standards before being released to the next stage of production.
Meet or exceed established daily production targets while maintaining quality and safety.
Monitor line performance and communicate downtime, slow-running equipment, and production constraints.
Minimize product waste, packaging waste, and unnecessary downtime.
Perform efficient changeovers while maintaining proper quality and safety procedures.
Support continuous improvement initiatives designed to improve throughput, quality, safety, and reliability.
Participate in Kaizen, 5S, problem-solving, and other operational improvement activities.
Take ownership of the equipment and production area and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
Follow all OSHA, company, and facility safety requirements.
Properly use all required PPE.
Follow lockout/tagout procedures when required and as trained.
Never bypass machine guarding, safety interlocks, or other safety devices.
Report unsafe conditions, near misses, injuries, spills, and equipment hazards immediately.
Maintain awareness of pinch points, moving machinery, hot surfaces, chemicals, glass, and other production hazards.
Follow all procedures related to the safe handling of alcoholic beverages and production chemicals.
Maintain a clean, organized, and food-safe production area.
Follow GMP and sanitation requirements at all times.
Complete required cleaning and sanitation activities for equipment and surrounding areas.
Properly handle cleaning chemicals and follow applicable SDS and chemical-handling procedures.
Maintain equipment and work areas in a condition that supports food-grade production standards.
Complete required housekeeping assignments throughout the shift rather than allowing conditions to build up.