Manufacturing/Production Technician - Entry Level

The J.M. Smucker Co. • McCalla, AL

6d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position in a manufacturing/production environment. The role involves producing high-quality consumer foods while adhering to all food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. The technician will work in various areas of production and packaging, operating machinery, and performing maintenance and sanitation tasks. The position requires a willingness to learn, follow safety and GMP guidelines, and contribute to a team environment. The company emphasizes a positive and encouraging work environment, supporting employee well-being through a comprehensive benefits package and a culture rooted in core beliefs.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent is required.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret documents such as safety rules, GMPs, and general instructions.
• Good communication skills are required both verbally and written.
• Ability to use a computer and input data required for production.
• Ability to give and receive feedback.
• Ability to perform critical thinking skills to problem solve and resolve conflicts.
• Regular computer usage.
• Employees must be available to work on weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
• Willingness to travel for various training sessions.
• Employees may be required to work in a variety of environmental hot and cold conditions.
• Minimum of 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses.
• Must pass a standard eye exam.
• Ability to perform the essential job functions identified above consistent with safety standards and practices with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Previous manufacturing experience in a food manufacturing environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Follow all company Safety Rules and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Understand and support the J.M. Smucker McCalla safety program policies and perform work related activities in a safe manner.
• Recognize unsafe working conditions and suggest new safety standards as appropriate.
• Understand, follow, and improve documented operational, maintenance, and sanitation standards in a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) environment.
• Create or update documentation as needed (SOPs, Job Aids, CIL Improvements).
• Follow site attendance policy.
• Follow the J.M. Smucker Basic Beliefs and Code of Conduct.
• Work flexible work schedules and overtime as needed.
• Follow skill progression to improve skill and knowledge by attending technical training sessions, participating in vendor visits and scheduled maintenance activities.
• Produce high quality consumer foods which comply with all food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
• Work in all areas of production and packaging as assigned, including operating, being in close proximity to and crossing platforms over or under machinery.
• Perform the essential functions of the job and perform as a member of a team.
• Assist fellow team members and other departments as needed.
• Lead a functional area (safety, quality, sanitation, etc.) for the team, including coaching and training team members, acting as a communication conduit, and driving improvements.
• Serve as equipment owner and lead projects to improve safety, quality, and production results for designated equipment area.
• Serve as trainer for designated equipment area; responsible for building technician skills and providing ongoing coaching.
• Perform the operation of the equipment, perform general maintenance, preventative maintenance as assigned, and CIP/CIL/COP sanitation operations as required.
• Perform equipment changeovers.
• Troubleshoot machinery and process issues, including basic repair and maintenance activities.
• Operate sanitation equipment and material handling equipment such as forklifts, hand trucks, pallet jacks, etc.
• Select and use appropriate basic hand tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, drills, grinders, etc.
• Identify and correct equipment defects.
• Use a computer to input and maintain accurate records and data; utilize basic computer programs for e-mail and online training resources.
• Analyze information using principles of math and statistics.
• Identify visual defects and make corrections as needed.
• Solve problems using analytical troubleshooting, critical thinking, and root cause analysis.
• Use continuous improvement tools to eliminate losses and drive issues to root cause; document, communicate, and implement corrective and preventative actions.
• Complete other tasks as required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package effective first day of employment, including: medical, dental and vision insurance
• 80-hour vacation accrual
• 401(k) Savings Plan with up to 7% Company match
• 12 paid company holidays plus 4 personal days
• parental leave
• annual holiday bonus

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED