Machine Operator 1st Shift

The Machine Operator, plays a critical role in our food manufacturing process by operating and maintaining packing machinery to ensure the efficient and accurate packaging of our products. You will be responsible for inspecting packaging materials, setting up and adjusting machines, monitoring production, and ensuring the quality and safety of the packaged food products. 

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate packing machinery in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Ensure machines are loaded with the correct packaging materials and product ingredients.
• Monitor machine operations to maintain product consistency and quality.
• Adjust machine settings as necessary to meet production requirements.
• Conduct regular checks on the packaging process to ensure product quality and packaging accuracy.
• Inspect packaging materials for defects and report any issues.
• Address and resolve any machine malfunctions promptly to minimize downtime.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• Report any safety hazards or incidents immediately.
• Maintain accurate production records, including batch numbers, packaging quantities, and machine settings.
• Complete required documentation and reports.
• Perform routine cleaning and sanitation of packing machines and work area.
• Conduct preventive maintenance on machines to ensure their reliability and longevity.
• Work closely with other team members, including machine technicians, quality control inspectors, and supervisors, to achieve production goals.

Competencies & Skills Requirements:

• Familiarity with packing machines and their operation.
• Strong attention to detail and quality control.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot minor machine issues.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and lift moderately heavy objects.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• English language preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience as a machine operator in a food manufacturing or packaging environment is a plus. 

Physical Requirements:

While performing the responsibilities of this job, the employee must be able to access all equipment of the workstation and other areas as needed. Frequent lifting, bending and twisting. Lifting up to 30 lbs. required to complete daily tasks.

Work Environment:

Packing Operators work in a fast-paced and sometimes noisy production environment. The work may involve standing for extended periods, bending, lifting, and repetitive tasks. Van’s Kitchen is a food manufacturing environment. You will be working in warm and cold conditions, in wet and dry environments with potentially dangerous equipment. Safety is our number one priority. 

EEOC Statement:

At Van’s Kitchen, we don’t just accept difference — we celebrate it, we embrace it, and we thrive on it for the benefit of our employee community, our Company and our products. Van’s Kitchen is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, schedules and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.