Machine Operator

Position Summary:

Operate and maintain production and packaging machinery, including feeding/refilling plastic film or containers, monitoring product quality, and performing routine mechanical troubleshooting and repairs to minimize downtime. Ensure compliance with GMP/food-safety standards and company policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, start, operate, and monitor production and packaging equipment (extruders, depositor lines, coating pans, enrobing, conveyors, flow-wrappers, heat sealers, etc.).

• Load and refill packaging film, trays, or other plastic materials and ensure correct film alignment, tension, and seal integrity.

• Monitor machine performance, product quality, weights, counts, and reject rates; make adjustments to maintain specifications.

• Perform routine preventive maintenance: cleaning, lubrication, belt/timing adjustments, replacing seals, sensors, cutters, and rollers.

• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, pneumatic, and basic electrical issues (motors, gearboxes, sensors, switches). Escalate complex electrical/control-system issues to maintenance lead.

• Changeover between SKUs: remove/replace tooling, adjust settings, run test batches and document parameters.

• Keep accurate production, maintenance, and sanitation logs; complete paperwork for batch records and nonconformance events.

• Follow GMP, HACCP, food-safety, and allergen-control procedures; maintain a clean, sanitary work area.

• Observe all safety procedures and wear required PPE; report hazards and near-misses.

• Train and mentor less experienced operators as needed.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience operating food-production or packaging machinery; experience in gummy/candy/confectionery manufacturing a plus.

• Must be bilingual (English/Spanish)

• Proven hands-on mechanical aptitude; able to use hand/power tools, multimeter, and basic shop equipment.

• Basic understanding of electrical systems and pneumatics.

• Ability to read basic mechanical drawings, SOPs, and work instructions.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality and safety.

Skills & Attributes

• Mechanical problem-solving and diagnostic skills.

• Comfortable with repetitive tasks and fast-paced production environments.

• Good communication, teamwork, and time-management skills.

• Dependable, punctual, and able to work assigned shift schedule.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly and heavier with assistance.

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and climbing on platforms.
  

Working Conditions & Benefits

• Fast-paced, production-floor environment