Machine Operator 1st Shift

Fresh Express•Columbia, SC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site. This role requires regular and reliable attendance and compliance with all company policies including SOP's, GMPs, Housekeeping, and Safety. The operator must inspect settings for codes, dates, leaks, oxygen levels, and seals to ensure proper operation of the assigned equipment and complete all required documentation accurately. Operators are expected to participate in process improvement projects, report equipment malfunctions and unsafe conditions immediately, and execute necessary changeovers. They must also plan ahead for supplies, maintain a clean work area, and be able to assist on different lines or baggers as needed. This role involves working cooperatively with process owners to maintain quality standards, assuring quality products are produced by meeting specifications, and using various measurement tools to monitor equipment performance. Employees may be assigned temporary tasks such as packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, housekeeping, rework, and general labor activities. A key aspect of this role is actively supporting team members through cross-training, buddy assignments, and providing coverage during breaks and meal periods. Operators must also be able to pass written and hands-on LOTO training and successfully lock out machinery as needed. Advancement to Machine Operator II is possible through training and education after one year.

Requirements

Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills.
Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, simple formulas, and conversions.
Ability to accurately track downtime and performance indicators.
Ability to accurately speak, read and write English at the level of work instructions, diagrams and related equipment documentation and support materials.
Adherence to GMP's (Good Manufacturing Practices) and PPE's (Personal Protection Equipment).
Ability to lift 75 pounds (dead lift) continual and box opening for 8 hours a day or more.
Pass a math aptitude test.
Pass the required strength physical examination.
Repetitive hand and eye movement skills.
Ability to stand for the duration of the shift (8 hours or more).
Perform repetitive motions throughout the shift such as push/pull/lift, twist, stoop, and bend continuously through the shift.
Ability to climb stairs or step up onto a platform several times throughout the shift.
Must have previous experience operating related food processing equipment or equivalent.
Prior experience in a packing environment.
High School diploma/GED, some Technical School coursework, or Mechanical/Vocational Certification.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in a similar temperature/strenuous work environment preferred.
Bilingual English/Spanish.

Responsibilities

Independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines.
Inspect settings for codes, dates, leaks, oxygen levels, and seals.
Complete all required safety, food safety, production, and maintenance documentation.
Participate in process improvement projects or new product testing.
Report any equipment malfunction or unsafe condition immediately.
Independently run and support assigned designated packaging machines and support equipment.
Assist higher level Operators as needed.
Execute necessary changeovers in equipment, film, printers, and related ancillary processes.
Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct.
Plan ahead on supplies needed for upcoming products per schedule.
Keep work area and equipment clean and free of garbage/debris at all times.
Assist in different lines or baggers as needed.
Works as directed and as a team.
Supports teammates.
Contributes to goals.
Set up multiple machines for startup and during production.
Assist in all jobs on line to keep machines running at all times.
Works cooperatively with process owners to maintain quality standards.
Assures quality products are being produced by meeting quality specifications.
Use a variety of means for measurement such as equipment setting confirmation along with probes, tanks, and meters.
Make machine adjustments as needed to achieve and maintain expected equipment performance.
Perform other tasks such as packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, housekeeping, rework, general labor activities, on a temporary basis.
Actively support other members of the work team including assisting with cross-training, new-hire/buddy assignments, and process support during breaks, meal periods, and other staff coverage as needed.
Pass both written and hands-on LOTO (Lock-Out Tag-Out) training on a yearly basis and be able to successfully lock out machinery as needed.