Material Handler

Join the Our Talent Network•North Lawrence, NY

About The Position

The Material Handler supports production, warehouse, and inventory operations through the safe handling, storage, inspection, and movement of materials and finished goods. The role helps maintain product quality, inventory accuracy, workplace safety, and operational efficiency throughout the facility. Upstate Niagara Cooperative is a dairy cooperative owned by more than 200 local family farms and produces and markets dairy products under brands including Upstate Farms®, Bison®, Milk for Life®, and Intense Milk®. The position involves handling finished goods and production materials, receiving and inspecting supplies, operating material-handling equipment, completing cleaning and sanitation tasks, and following company safety procedures. Work schedules may vary according to operational needs and the collective bargaining agreement. The work takes place in a generally loud facility and may involve moving mechanical equipment, elevated heights, wet and humid conditions, and cleaning chemicals. The hourly rate is $25.32, as indicated in the collective bargaining agreement. The total rewards package may also include group health and/or dental insurance, a retirement plan, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Ability to read and interpret work orders, safety regulations, operating instructions, maintenance procedures, company policies, and manuals.
Ability to complete routine reports and documentation accurately.
Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and other departments.
Ability to perform basic calculations using whole numbers and standard units of measurement.
Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions using common-sense understanding.
Ability to solve routine problems involving a limited number of variables in standardized situations.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods; use hands and fingers to handle, feel, and manipulate materials and equipment; reach above shoulder height; and communicate through speaking and hearing.
Ability to climb ladders and balance while performing work tasks occasionally.
Ability to lift and move up to 55 pounds occasionally, up to 25 pounds regularly, and up to 5 pounds above shoulder height frequently.
Adequate close and distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Nice To Haves

One to three months of related warehouse, manufacturing, or material-handling experience preferred.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

Band finished product for all product lines.
Place and scan product pallets into designated cooler rack locations.
Load palletizers with pallets as needed.
Stage fruit totes for production lines using proper inventory rotation procedures.
Supply packaging materials to case packers to assist production personnel.
Accurately tally finished product cases and product designated for food bank distribution.
Receive packaging supplies and ingredients.
Verify code dates and complete required receiving documentation.
Inspect inbound trailers and incoming supplies for pest activity, damage, and overall condition.
Inspect product packaging for integrity, correct UPC codes, and shelf-life code dates.
Inspect pallets for damaged, open, or compromised cases.
Safely operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment.
Complete assigned cleaning and sanitation tasks and maintain required documentation.
Routinely inspect cooler racks and submit work orders for needed repairs.
Follow company safety policies and procedures.
Participate in required training programs, safety initiatives, plant safety teams, and safety programs.
Plan work activities so breaks and meal periods are taken in accordance with the bargaining unit agreement.