Machine Operator 1st Shift SIGN ON BONUS ELIGIBLE

Woodland Gourmet•Waukegan, IL

5d•$18 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently setting up and operating production and packaging machinery in a dry powder food manufacturing environment. The role helps ensure products meet specifications, quality standards, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). It includes leading the line crew, maintaining product flow, adjusting equipment, documenting production, and supporting sanitation and food safety requirements. This position does not allow remote work. The role requires machine-operator experience and at least two years operating manufacturing equipment. A high school diploma or GED is preferred, as is experience with dry powder food packaging. The position is eligible for a $1,500 sign-on bonus and an annual bonus under the applicable incentive program. The estimated hourly salary range is $17.50–$26.00; the offered rate is determined at the company’s discretion based on qualifications, experience, transferable skills, market conditions, and location. Benefits include medical and prescription drug plans, dental, life and disability insurance, vision insurance, flexible spending and health savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, an employee assistance program, voluntary benefits, a 401(k) with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays, and paid time off.

Requirements

Machine-operator experience is required.
At least two years of experience operating manufacturing equipment.
Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and food safety principles.
Strong mechanical aptitude for machine setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
High attention to detail and commitment to product quality and accuracy.
Strong leadership and communication skills, including the ability to direct and support a line crew.
Ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt to different production lines.
Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting.
Ability to read and write English and interpret production, safety, and maintenance documents.
Strong math skills, including arithmetic with fractions, decimals, and units of measure.
Understanding of weights, measurements, and scale operations.
Positive attitude and ability to work well with others.
Ability to learn quickly and assist with minor maintenance adjustments.
Must follow company GMP, safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.
Must be flexible with hours; overtime may be required.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, climb ladders, maneuver in small spaces, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive physical tasks.
Ability to lift, push, or pull materials up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Experience with dry powder food packaging strongly preferred.
Food industry background is a plus.
Understanding of general warehouse operations preferred.
Forklift or material-handling equipment certification may be required.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor fillers, coders, scales, case sealers, tape machines, and other production equipment.
Perform machine changeovers, routine adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maintain line efficiency.
Ensure timely line starts and direct the line crew to complete production runs efficiently.
Verify product weights, codes, seal integrity, appearance, and compliance with specifications.
Order product and packaging materials from material handlers to support continuous production.
Record production activities in the database and complete line paperwork accurately and on time.
Follow GMPs, hygiene rules, gowning procedures, and sanitary work practices.
Complete required HACCP and quality documentation daily.
Promptly identify and report equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, and quality issues.
Ensure line employees follow safety procedures and operate equipment properly.
Conduct allergen and line changeovers according to SOPs.
Clean and sanitize equipment and work areas.
Assist maintenance with minor repairs, preventative maintenance tasks, and basic mechanical needs.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Operate pallet jacks, forklifts, or other material-handling equipment as required.
Support production on other lines and perform other assigned tasks.
Collaborate with supervisors and team members to meet daily production targets.

Benefits

Medical and prescription drug plans
Dental insurance
Life insurance
Short-term and long-term disability insurance
Vision insurance
Flexible spending account
Health savings account
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
Voluntary hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal, and identity theft benefits
401(k) with company match
Paid family leave
Paid holidays
Paid time off
$1,500 sign-on bonus eligibility
Annual bonus eligibility