Pallet Machine Operator – Night / Weekend Shift

PLA Buyer•Riverside, MO
•Onsite

About The Position

PLA is seeking a diligent, safety-focused Pallet Machine Operator to safely and efficiently operate and maintain assigned machinery as part of its pallet production process. The role primarily involves operating a pallet sorting machine, sorting and inspecting pallets, clearing jams and debris, handling materials, completing production paperwork, and maintaining a clean, organized, safe work area. The position is based in a manufacturing or production environment that may involve wood dust, sawdust, moderate to high noise levels, and varying temperatures. Steel-toed boots and other personal protective equipment are required. The advertised rate is $20.00 per hour, with guaranteed increases of $0.50 per hour at 90 days, one year, and annually thereafter, reaching the maximum rate after five years in the role.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Strong commitment to safety protocols and procedures.
  • Ability to understand and follow operational guidelines for machinery.
  • Problem-solving skills to identify and report machine issues.
  • Good math, language, and reading skills, with attention to detail.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift for extended periods.
  • Ability to regularly lift and move materials, including lumber and pallets, and lift up to 50–75 pounds.
  • Good manual dexterity and tactile sensitivity for operating tools, handling materials, and inspecting pallet quality.
  • Ability to hear and understand verbal instructions, machinery sounds, and safety alarms in a noisy environment.
  • Excellent vision, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Nice To Haves

  • Machine Operator experience.
  • Experience operating a SMETCO 300 series pallet sorter.
  • High school diploma or GED.

Responsibilities

  • Safely operate assigned equipment, such as a SMETCO 300 series pallet sorter, in accordance with company policies and procedures.
  • Sort pallets by grade, quality, manufacturer, and type, and inspect them for conformance to quality standards.
  • Perform routine equipment checks and basic maintenance, including removing jams and clearing debris from stackers and conveyors.
  • Immediately report equipment problems or malfunctions to the appropriate authority.
  • Ensure productive sorting of pallets through the machine.
  • Hand-stack pallets to appropriate heights and move materials or pallets around the facility.
  • Accurately complete production paperwork to track progress.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace around the machine.
  • Follow all safety policies and procedures.
  • Adapt to new schedules or tasks based on operational needs.

Benefits

  • Daily pay option.
  • Weekly pay.
  • Paid time off.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Health Savings Account with company contributions up to $750 annually.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with up to a 4% employer match.
  • Financial Wellness Consultant access.
  • Flexible benefits plan options.
  • Prescription drug coverage.
  • Free basic life insurance and AD&D coverage.
  • Voluntary short-term disability coverage.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • MetLife Legal and Identity Theft Services.
  • Pet insurance through ASPCA.
  • LifeMart employee discounts.
  • Dell Employee Purchase Program discounts.
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