Packaging Technician

Position Summary

This Packaging Technician position is responsible for performing complete line changeovers and operational adjustments on equipment in order to optimize line efficiency.  Assist in tracking line efficiencies, make recommendations for operational improvements.  Assist with installation of efficiency improvement projects.  Work cooperatively with Maintenance to troubleshoot problem areas. Comply with SOPs and cGMPs. Performs production tasks as assigned in Packaging Operations.

Packaging:  Packaging vaccines for distribution.  Includes running multiple packaging lines per our local procedures in a warehouse environment. Includes inspection, labeling and cartoning of finished product per our regulatory filings and local procedures.

Position Responsibilities

• Be proficient on disassembly, reassembly, electrical and mechanical adjustment, and set-up of all Packaging equipment.
• Assist in training colleges operating equipment.
• Assist other packaging personnel in performing their job duties.
• Demonstrated ability to act and work in an Operator III lead role.  Provide back up and substitution during vacations, lead person absences and heavy work schedules.
• Perform assigned work in own area of responsibility, which would include coordination of efficiency studies, evaluation of packaging lines, testing of new equipment, training operators on new equipment, and line optimization projects.
• Be proficient with all PLC parameters associated with the packaging operation.  Be proficient at changing these parameters to optimize operating efficiency.  Begin to train on basic PLC hardware and programming skills.
• Proficiently evaluate data from the Cycle Time / Down Time tracking system and determine areas for improvement.  Participate and represent Packaging on Right First-Time teams that utilize this data to develop optimization and efficiency solutions.
• Perform associated Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) paperwork including completing documentation, learning and using SOPs, and completing equipment logbooks.  Evaluate and recommend changes to SOP’s and set-up process.  Edit the SOP’s and follow through on the Change Approval Process to get the changes implemented.
• Assist in developing, writing, and executing validation protocols.
• Coordinate the evaluation of maintenance work orders for completeness and for packaging operations priority.
• Learn and comply with regulatory requirements such as USDA, APHIS, and VMD & OSHA.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives and activities and routinely complete special projects as requested by Supervisor/Team Leader.

Technical Skills Requirements

Language Skills

• Communication skills
• Ability to speak effectively before all level of colleagues.

Mathematical Skills

• Ability to apply concepts of basic math.
• Ability to calculate proportions, percentages, and volume.
• Ability to write project justifications showing cost justifications.

Reasoning Abilities

• Ability to solve practical problems with a variety of concrete variables.
• Ability to make logical decisions concerning shift and department issues.
• Ability to make decisions regarding floor activities in absence of supervisor.
• Ability to adjust thinking and approach in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to read and interpret equipment operating manuals, layout drawings, plant utility drawings, and electrical schematics.
• Ability to read, interpret and or develop batch records, inventory reports, production plans and capacity analysis reports.

Interpersonal and Leadership Abilities

• Demonstrated shop floor leadership proficiency.
• Ability to develop and enhance a teamwork atmosphere.
• Demonstrated professional and positive attitude.
• Ability to gain trust and commitment from other colleagues.

Education and Experience

• Two years college or technical training and/or six years packaging experience.
• 3 years previous experience in a manufacturing environment and / or Packaging Operator III or Maintenance Technician level beneficial. 
• Good mathematical, science and computer skills preferred.

• Demonstrated technical understanding of packaging equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to follow-through with attention to detail ensuring packaging project activities are scheduled, completed and documented in an efficient, effective, safe, and compliant manner.
• Experience in analysis and problem solving on machinery and equipment.
• Must work in an industrial environment safely using approved procedures, i