Packaging Machine Operator (Terra)

Job purpose

The Packing Technician is responsible for operating and maintaining the packing hall machinery in the production process. The operator ensures that the machinery runs efficiently, producing high-quality products while adhering to safety standards and production schedules.

Duties and Responsibilities

The associate’s primary functions and responsibilities are as follows:

Machine Operation:

• Set up and operate packing hall machinery and various conveyor belts according to production specifications.
• Review schedule with supervisor and prepare test and set up line for production runs. Testing and confirming with supervisor on operational readiness.
• Adjust machine settings to ensure precise operations.
• Replace/ Refill used materials throughout the seasoning & packaging process.
• Maintain work area, cleaning equipment and area to maintain operational excellence.
• Monitor the machinery during operation and make necessary adjustments for any issues.
• Identify and address any defects or inconsistencies in the packing process.
• Maintain records of breakdowns, follow up with repairs to ensure production readiness.
• Write work orders for broken or unacceptable conditions.
• Communicate equipment concerns or deficiencies to Maintenance immediately to ensure timely repairs.
• Follow equipment set up procedures and review effectiveness of set points.
• Must follow Good Manufacturing Practices, Food Safety, and Food Defense guidelines.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting:

• Perform and record routine and pre-start inspection on packing hall machinery, including cleaning and identifying issues.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues to minimize downtime.
• Coordinate with the maintenance team for more complex repairs or adjustments.
• Perform allergen changeovers in the packing hall, including removing all guards, tensions, rollers, etc.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
• Report any safety hazards or incidents to the supervisor immediately.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

Material Handling:

• Load and unload materials onto the packing hall machinery using appropriate lifting equipment.
• Ensure materials are handled and stored properly to prevent damage or contamination.

Efficiency and Productivity:

• Work closely with the production team to meet daily and weekly production targets.
• Optimize machine operations to reduce waste and maximize output.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience operating similar machinery in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Minimum six months’ experience in a Production capacity or related role in a manufacturing environment.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and make machine adjustments.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Basic math skills for measuring and adjusting machine settings.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, including production orders and machine manuals.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well in a team environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimum instructions.
• Adhere to all GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) Procedures.
• Read and understand basic flow charts.
• Comply with all company policies and regulations.

Working conditions

• Work indoors.
• May be exposed to hot temperatures from fryers.
• May work close to others, usually within a few feet.
• Compliant with ventilation, cleanliness, space, lighting, and temperature.

Physical requirements

• Standing involved.
• May repeat the same movement.
• Often wear safety equipment such as gloves, hair nets, steel toed safety shoes/boots and beard nets.
• Willingness to work in a noisy and sometimes hot manufacturing environment.
• Ability to bend or twist their body.
• Must be able to lift up to 70lbs.