Pallet Sorting Machine Operator 2nd Shift

PLA Family of Companies•Montgomery, IL

14h•$22 - $25

About The Position

PLA is seeking a diligent, safety-focused Pallet Sorting Machine Operator to operate and maintain assigned machinery as part of its pallet production process. The operator safely runs equipment such as a SMETCO 300 series pallet sorter, sorts and inspects pallets, performs basic equipment checks and maintenance, and reports malfunctions. The role also involves hand-stacking and moving pallets, completing production paperwork, and keeping the work area clean and safe. The position pays $22.00–$25.00 per hour, with starting pay of $22.00 per hour. The company guarantees $0.50-per-hour increases at 90 days, one year, and annually thereafter, reaching the maximum rate after five years in the role. The role is based in a manufacturing or production environment, with exposure to wood dust or sawdust, moderate to high noise levels, and varying temperatures. Steel-toed boots and other personal protective equipment are required.

Requirements

At least 18 years old.
Strong commitment to safety protocols and procedures.
Ability to understand and follow machinery operating guidelines.
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, weighing up to 50–75 pounds.
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.
Vision adequate for detailed work, reading measurements, identifying defects, and operating machinery safely.

Nice To Haves

Machine operator experience is preferred.
Experience operating a SMETCO 300 series pallet sorter is a plus.
High school diploma or GED is preferred.

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 pallets are sorted productively 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 to access earnings before payday.
Weekly pay.
Paid time off (PTO).
Medical, dental, and vision insurance, including three medical plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions up to $750 annually.
401(k) plan with up to a 4% employer match, eligibility beginning the first of the month after 90 days, and access to a Financial Wellness Consultant.
Flexible benefits with multiple plan options.
Prescription drug coverage.
Basic life insurance and AD&D coverage at no cost upon employment.
Voluntary short-term disability coverage.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Voluntary MetLife Legal and Identity Theft Services and ASPCA pet insurance.
LifeMart employee discounts.
Dell Employee Purchase Program discounts for personal use.