Packaging Machine Operator

Job Summary:   The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for the daily inspection, cleaning, operating and adjustment of various machines in the packaging area.  Responsibilities include loading, replenishing glue, changing films, and adjusting guides, sensors, and critical settings for format changes.  The Packaging Machine Operator performs quality checks and completes records to verify product is packed to meet specifications.  

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Verify that pouches, caps and codes are correct for the product being run.
• Identify and sort dirty pouches for cleaning.
• Review packaging specification to determine correct pouch counts, item numbers, cartons, trays and inserts, as well as box codes, labels, pallets and other items.
• Identify components of packaging container.
• Orient and move product for proper labeling & packaging order.
• Orient and maneuver cases for efficient and continuous conveyor runs.
• Watch product flow both on incoming and outgoing feed conveyors.
• Fill machine with various materials as needed to pack, seal and store product containers.
• Perform basic machine and conveyor cleaning.
• Fill in printing machine with labels & ribbon as needed.
• Verify machine sensors are functional.
• Report any mechanical issues to maintenance staff.

• Maintain a clean and orderly work area.
• Continually observe for cross contamination or foreign objects in the packaging.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Ability to identify all machine and work center stop buttons, machine guards, hoods, doors and safety warnings, among other items, to ensure safety and efficient operation of the packaging machines.
• Regular and reliable attendance required.
• Basic Computer skills strongly preferred.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times in the Production Area.

• Must be able to communicate with all levels of management and maintenance.
• Safe use of a hot glue gun, sharp instruments, Non-Powered Pallet Jack and Automated Tape Machine.

Working Environment:  

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an associate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The Packaging Machine Operator is required to work on the production floor. While performing the duties of this job, the associate frequently will be exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and extreme heat and/or cold.   The associate continuously works near moving mechanical parts.  The associate will be exposed to loud noises from production equipment and thus will be required to wear PPE.   The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but may be high at times due to production and mechanical equipment noise. 

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be performed by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to handle or feel objects, reach with hands and arms; see, talk and /or hear. The associate is required to stand for up to an 8 hour period (with breaks).  

The associate will regularly need to lift up to 50 pounds, and occasionally push or pull up to 70 pounds.

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of associates under his/her supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.