Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Fresh Express•Columbia, SC

94d

About The Position

The Machine Operator independently operates assigned packaging machines and support equipment at the site. The role helps maintain production output and quality by setting up machines, performing changeovers and adjustments, checking product and equipment conditions, completing required documentation, and supporting coworkers and other line tasks as needed. Operators must follow standard operating procedures, GMPs, housekeeping requirements, safety rules, and food-safety practices. The position may also involve temporary assignments to packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, rework, housekeeping, or general labor activities. The schedule is 2nd shift, beginning at 4:15 PM and continuing until work is finished. The role may require overtime, six or more consecutive workdays, late nights, weekends, holidays, or work on any shift when necessary. The work environment is noisy, wet, and cold, approximately 30–34°F, with prolonged standing and repetitive physical activity. Employees may advance to Machine Operator II through training and education after one year.

Requirements

Previous experience operating related food-processing equipment or equivalent.
Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills.
Basic math skills, including arithmetic, percentages, simple formulas, and conversions.
Pass a written test demonstrating proficiency and a math aptitude test.
Accurately track downtime and performance indicators.
Speak, read, and write English well enough to understand work instructions, diagrams, equipment documentation, and support materials.
Adhere to GMPs and personal protective equipment requirements.
Lift 75 pounds by deadlift continually and open boxes for eight or more hours per day.
Pass the required strength physical examination.
Perform repetitive hand and eye movements.
Stand for eight or more hours and repeatedly push, pull, lift, twist, stoop, and bend throughout the shift.
Climb stairs or step onto a platform several times during the shift.
Work in a noisy, wet, cold environment of approximately 30–34°F.
Be able and willing to work six or more consecutive days, overtime, any shift, late nights, weekends, and holidays if necessary.
Pass the written exam before being assigned to Operator III.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in a similar temperature or strenuous work environment.
Bilingual English/Spanish ability.
Prior experience in a packing environment.
High school diploma or GED, some technical school coursework, or a mechanical/vocational certification.

Responsibilities

Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
Follow SOPs, GMPs, housekeeping, safety, food-safety, and other company policies.
Inspect machine settings and product conditions, including codes, dates, leaks, oxygen levels, and seals.
Complete required safety, food-safety, production, maintenance, packaging, quality, downtime, forming tube inspection, and Teflon tape documentation.
Participate in process-improvement projects and new-product testing.
Immediately report equipment malfunctions and unsafe conditions to the PMO, floor coordinator, or supervisor.
Independently operate assigned packaging machines and support equipment, and assist higher-level operators as needed.
Perform changeovers involving equipment, film, printers, and related ancillary processes while meeting production expectations.
Verify date coding and bag labeling on packages, boxes, and other products.
Plan ahead for supplies needed for upcoming products according to the schedule.
Keep the work area and equipment clean and free of garbage and debris.
Assist on different lines or baggers and support teammates and team goals.
Set up multiple machines for startup and during production, and assist with line jobs as needed to keep machines running.
Work cooperatively with process owners to maintain quality standards and ensure products meet specifications.
Use equipment settings, probes, tanks, and meters to monitor bag atmospheres, leaker rates, weights, and other quality measures.
Adjust machines as needed to achieve and maintain expected performance.
Support other team members through cross-training, new-hire or buddy assignments, process support during breaks and meals, and other staff coverage.
Pass annual written and hands-on LOTO training and lock out machinery when needed.
Perform temporary assignments such as packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, housekeeping, rework, and general labor.