Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

KIK Consumer Products•Salem, VA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Machine Operator on 2nd Shift (4:00pm – 2:30am, Monday–Thursday with weekends per business need) where you will operate and monitor high-speed filling and packaging equipment, including fillers, case packers, cappers, case sealers, palletizers, and labelers. You will be responsible for equipment start-up and shutdown, making speed adjustments, and performing basic troubleshooting while proactively monitoring operations to minimize downtime and disruptions. Working closely with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams, you will help ensure products consistently meet safety, quality, and efficiency standards. This position offers a base hourly rate of $18.54 plus a $1.00 shift differential if working during 2nd shift.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
1+ year of manufacturing experience required; willingness to learn machine operation in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, pay close attention to detail, and complete repetitive tasks accurately.
Reliable attendance, positive attitude, and strong teamwork and communication skills.
Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or adjusted schedules as business needs require.
Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 60 lbs as needed during the shift.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and frequently bend, twist, reach, and extend arms while operating equipment and handling materials.
Ability to sit, kneel, and crouch to access lower equipment areas and packaging materials.
Comfortable working in both temperature-controlled and non-temperature-controlled, high-noise environments while wearing required PPE (hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, etc.).
Must be able to visually inspect product, labels, and controls and hear audible alarms and equipment signals, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

Operate fillers and associated packaging equipment (case packers, cappers, sealers, palletizers, labelers) to safely produce quality product at targeted line speeds.
Control machine functions including starting/stopping, speed adjustments, and coordination of variable speed controls to maintain steady flow through the line.
Maintain vigilance for jams, spills, or other upsets in the filling and packing operation and react quickly using approved procedures to minimize downtime and product loss.
Perform routine checks for correct codes, labels, fills, torque, packaging integrity, and overall appearance; escalate non-conformances to quality or supervision.
Complete required time, production, and downtime records accurately and on time.
Communicate clearly with downline associates, supervisors, managers, and maintenance to report performance issues, safety concerns, and maintenance needs, including managing alerts for equipment problems.
Monitor the work area and equipment for unsafe conditions and apply proper techniques or notify appropriate personnel to correct them; follow and support all safety and GMP programs.