1st shift Process Machine Operator I

About SunOpta
SunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers’ growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.


Summary:
The Process Machine Operator I (PMO I) is an entry-level skilled operator role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of assigned production equipment. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn the essential functions of food manufacturing equipment. The PMO I focuses on equipment ownership, GMP compliance, quality execution, and foundational troubleshooting while supporting line efficiency and minimizing downtime.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Understand and follow the production Sequence of Operation
Operate assigned equipment in accordance with SOPs and safety standards
Monitor equipment performance and respond to alarms and faults
Perform basic troubleshooting and make machine adjustments as trained
Access and review machine reports, alarm logs, and monitoring screens
Perform operator-based preventive maintenance (cleaning, inspection, lubrication)
Assist Maintenance with corrective and preventive maintenance activities
Complete all required production, quality, and safety documentation accurately
Conduct required quality checks and record results per SOP
Follow all GMP, food safety, and sanitation requirements
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
Support changeovers and setups under guidance
Communicate issues, delays, or concerns to Line Leads and Supervisors
Wear required PPE and strictly follow all safety policies (LOTO, machine guarding, etc.)
Obtain forklift and chemical certifications as required
Participate in team assignments and continuous improvement efforts
Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities:
Assist’s Line Lead in managing day to day function’s.

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Team player
• Basic math skills
• Detail orientated
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Mechanical and Troubleshooting skills
• Food Industry experience and knowledge of GMP.
• Able to consistently lift up to 50 pounds above shoulders
• Must be able to tolerate standing for long periods of time (8-12) hours.
• Able to work independently with minimal supervision
• Basic computer skills


Education & Experience
• High School Diploma or GED required
• Manufacturing experience preferred


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills
• Basic math and computer skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to stand for extended periods (8–12 hours)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Travel Requirements:
None.


Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice


AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED