Packaging Operator

Job Purpose

Maintain product quality and safely operate packaging equipment while performing all packaging activities associated with the assigned production line.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Packaging Operations

• Package products into bags, boxes, or bulk containers.
• Label products and stack finished goods onto pallets.
• Stack bags (up to 50 lbs.) from waist/shoulder height to pallets between knee and shoulder height.

Quality Assurance

• Inspect finished products visually to ensure quality standards are met.
• Verify that products, bags, wraps, seals, boxes, and pallets meet required specifications.
• Immediately report any quality concerns to the Packaging Lead or Supervisor.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot packaging equipment, including but not limited to:
  • Production Lines
  • Palletizers, forklifts, stretch wrappers
  • Scales, metal detectors, belts, control panels
  • Labelers, coders, case erectors, trash compactors
• Perform operator-level preventive maintenance.
• Identify and communicate potential line improvements with Maintenance and Supervisors.
• Anticipate technical issues and proactively troubleshoot or escalate as needed.

Sanitation & Housekeeping

• Participate in full facility clean-up between production runs.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and ensure it is left clean for the next shift.
• Support cleaning and sanitation activities during product changeovers.

Quality Assurance (QA) Duties

• Enter routine quality check data into IQS software.
• Monitor and ensure in-process HACCP compliance.
• Perform required inspections prior to product start-up.
• Collect product samples for testing and release.
• Conduct verification checks of metal detectors and magnets per quality checkpoints.
• Participate in first article inspections to ensure food safety and quality standards.

Production & Documentation

• Complete all required paperwork accurately, including production reports.
• Maintain proficiency in Alphia business systems (e.g., JDE, IQS).
• Follow FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory practices.

Training & Teamwork

• Train, coach, and cross-train team members and new hires.
• Work collaboratively to meet team and production goals.
• Communicate effectively with team members and leadership.

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Job Safety Analyses (JSAs).
• Follow Lockout/Tagout procedures as certified.
• Operate forklifts safely after certification.
• Work only in designated job areas.
• Report any food safety, quality, or safety concerns immediately.
• Take accountability for personal safety, behavior, and performance.

Competencies & Skills

• Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, percentages).
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Strong communication skills (verbal, written, and radio).
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks.
• Positive attitude and willingness to follow and provide instructions.
• Ability to obtain:
  • Lockout/Tagout certification
  • Forklift certification

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.

Experience:

• Manufacturing experience preferred.

Physical Demands

• Regular: Walking, standing, talking, hearing, and moving throughout the facility.
• Frequent: Standing; using hands for handling, grasping, or operating equipment.
• Occasional: Sitting, climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching overhead, and operating foot controls.

Lifting Requirements:

• Occasionally: 20–50 lbs.
• Frequently: 10–25 lbs.
• Constantly: Up to 10 lbs.

Vision Requirements:

• Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.

Work Environment

• Work environment includes exposure to typical manufacturing conditions.
• Employees must follow all safety and operational procedures.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.