Machine Operator 1st Shift

Fresh Express•Columbia, SC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site. This role involves ensuring proper operation of equipment, completing documentation, participating in process improvement, and supporting teammates. The operator will be responsible for executing necessary changeovers, assuring correct date coding and labeling, and planning for supplies. They will also maintain a clean work area, assist on different lines as needed, and work cooperatively with process owners to maintain quality standards. Employees may be assigned additional tasks such as packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, housekeeping, rework, and general labor activities on a temporary basis. The role also includes actively supporting work team members through cross-training, new-hire assignments, and process support during breaks and other staff coverage needs. A key requirement is the ability to pass written and hands-on LOTO training annually 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.
Know basic math such as 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.
Adhere to GMP's (Good Manufacturing Practices) and PPE's (Personal Protection Equipment).
Able 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.
Able 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.
Able to climb stairs or step up onto a platform several times throughout the shift.
Must be able to work in a noisy, wet, and cold environment of approximately 30-34 degrees Fahrenheit.
Must be able to work 6 or more consecutive days including overtime, any shift, late nights, weekends, and holidays if necessary.
Previous experience operating related food processing equipment or equivalent.
Prior experience in a packing environment.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines.
Inspect settings for codes, dates, leaks, oxygen levels, and seals to ensure proper operation of the assigned equipment.
Complete all required safety, Food safety, production, maintenance, etc. documentation.
Participate in process improvement projects or new product testing.
Report any equipment malfunction to the PMO, floor coordinator or supervisor immediately.
Report any 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 while ensuring production expectations are met.
Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc.
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.
Assure quality products are being produced by meeting quality specifications for production on assigned line(s).
Uses a variety of means for measurement such as equipment setting confirmation along with probes, tanks, and meters to monitor such things as bag atmospheres, leaker rates, weights, etc.
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, etc. on a temporary basis.
Actively support the other members of the employee's 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.