Operator, Compression / Encapsulation

USPL NUTRITIONALS • North Brunswick, NJ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Compression and Encapsulation Operator sets up and operates tablet compression machines and sets up automatic capsule filling machines in accordance with company standard operating procedures (SOPs) and cGMP regulations, ensuring products meet applicable quality standards. The role includes equipment setup, operation, cleaning, and light mechanical adjustments. Operators are accountable for production line safety, quality, shrink, attainment, and efficiency, and must be capable of operating multiple similar machines at once and learning a variety of equipment within the manufacturing area.

The position has three levels. Level 1 operators perform required machine adjustments, production documentation, quality inspections, sampling and testing, troubleshooting, and equipment cleaning and reassembly. Level 2 operators additionally investigate and troubleshoot product issues, recommend solutions, and cross-train in other manufacturing areas. Level 3 operators also assist the supervisor with deviation reports and corrective actions, perform basic and routine maintenance, and are expected to operate all machines independently, with advanced tablet press and encapsulator setup and operation skills.

Operators must follow company policies, GMPs, ethical business practices, SOPs, and safety requirements; maintain appropriate gowning and hygiene; and complete required training. The position requires extended hours and weekend overtime. Work takes place in a manufacturing environment with potential exposure to dust, odors, noise, fumes, chemicals, and cleaning agents. The role requires standing and walking on the production floor for at least six hours per shift, lifting up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds, and wearing required PPE.

Requirements

• High school graduate or GED equivalent.
• Level 1: 1–2 years of Compression / Encapsulation Operator experience.
• Level 2: 2–4 years of Compression / Encapsulation Operator experience.
• Level 3: 5 or more years of experience.
• Level 3: Ability to operate all machines and work independently; highly skilled in the proper setup and operation of tablet presses and encapsulators.
• Ability to work in a team and assist others.
• Ability to follow written instructions precisely, with attention to detail and accuracy with numbers.
• Knowledge of cGMP and OSHA standards.
• Mechanical aptitude to understand the inner workings of equipment.
• Ability to read and write basic English to understand regulated industry instruction sheets.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and move up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to stand and walk on the production floor for at least six hours per shift.
• Ability to use hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects or controls; lift to waist height or above shoulder height; bend frequently from the waist; squat; and walk short distances.
• Ability to occasionally work from a rolling ladder or step stool, lean over equipment, and kneel on the floor to clean under equipment.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including a lab coat, face mask, booties, gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and respirators.
• Ability to work extended hours and weekend overtime.

Responsibilities

• Make machine adjustments to support smooth line operation and required production quality and quantity.
• Follow company policies, procedures, GMPs, ethical business practices, SOPs, and safety practices.
• Complete and sign operation logs, batch records, and other required documentation in accordance with company and regulatory standards.
• Inspect products during operation and perform required sampling and testing to ensure applicable quality standards are met.
• Identify, investigate, and troubleshoot product and equipment issues, and recommend solutions as appropriate to the position level.
• At Level 2 and Level 3, troubleshoot tableting issues including sticking and picking, capping, chipping, compressibility, delamination, disintegration, and black spots, as well as setup, machine performance, and documentation issues.
• At Level 3, assist the supervisor in completing deviation reports that outline short- and long-term corrective actions.
• At Level 3, perform basic and routine maintenance activities.
• At Levels 2 and 3, cross-train in other areas to support the manufacturing process as needed.
• Disassemble, clean or sanitize, and reassemble required equipment.
• Maintain proper gowning and hygiene to protect product integrity.
• Keep management informed of area activities and significant problems.
• Complete job-related safety and other required training.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefit options.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Basic and supplemental life insurance.
• AD&D insurance.
• Matched 401(k) savings plan.
• Potential premium pay, including overtime, shift differential, and holiday pay.
• Sick time.
• Up to 10 days of vacation in the first year, increasing to 12 days starting in the second year.

What This Job Offers

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