Packaging Operations Technician

Job Summary

The Packaging Operations Technician is a skilled manufacturing professional responsible for the setup, operation, adjustment, troubleshooting, and first-echelon maintenance of packaging equipment within a nutraceutical manufacturing environment. This role serves as the technical resource on assigned packaging lines and works closely with Packaging Machine Operators, Quality, Maintenance, and Production Leadership to maximize equipment uptime, product quality, safety, and operational efficiency.

The Packaging Operations Technician performs equipment changeovers, line setup verification, mechanical adjustments, preventative maintenance activities, and root cause troubleshooting while ensuring compliance with cGMP, FDA regulations, and company procedures. This position is expected to lead by example, support operator training, and drive continuous improvement initiatives within the packaging department.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Packaging Equipment Operation & Technical Support

• Operate and oversee packaging equipment in accordance with current SOPs and production requirements.
• Perform equipment setup, startup, shutdown, and changeover activities for multiple packaging lines.
• Support packaging operations involving bottling lines, induction sealers, labelers, shrink wrap systems, king counters, powder packaging equipment, and related systems.
• Monitor equipment performance and make operational adjustments to maintain efficiency and product quality.
• Assist Packaging Machine Operators with technical issues, troubleshooting, and process improvements.
• Support production goals by minimizing downtime and maximizing line performance.

Equipment Setup, Changeovers & Troubleshooting

• Lead packaging line changeovers, ensuring proper setup and verification of all components.
• Perform mechanical adjustments, calibrations, and operational checks to ensure equipment readiness.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, jams, sensor faults, and process interruptions.
• Identify root causes of recurring equipment issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Coordinate with Maintenance on repairs that exceed first-level maintenance capabilities.
• Document equipment issues and communicate concerns to supervisors and maintenance personnel.

First-Echelon Maintenance & Equipment Care

• Perform routine preventative maintenance activities on packaging equipment.
• Conduct daily inspections of machinery and support equipment.
• Replace approved wear parts and perform minor mechanical repairs within authorized scope.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and operational readiness.
• Verify guards, sensors, safety devices, and machine components are functioning properly.
• Escalate equipment reliability concerns as necessary.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all packaging operations comply with cGMP requirements and applicable FDA regulations.
• Verify Bills of Materials (BOMs), packaging specifications, labels, lot numbers, and production documentation.
• Monitor production runs to ensure products meet established quality standards.
• Assist with investigations involving packaging deviations, quality issues, or equipment-related concerns.
• Accurately complete all required production, maintenance, cleaning, and quality documentation.
• Immediately report any concerns involving contamination, product integrity, equipment damage, or GMP compliance.

Leadership & Training

• Provide day-to-day technical guidance and support to Packaging Machine Operators and line personnel.
• Train employees on equipment operation, troubleshooting, setup procedures, cleaning procedures, and best practices.
• Support onboarding and cross-training efforts within the department.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Assist supervisors in identifying training needs and skill development opportunities.

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and waste reduction.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability and packaging processes.
• Support implementation and sustainability of 5S initiatives throughout the department.
• Assist with equipment qualifications, process validations, and operational improvement projects as assigned.

Housekeeping & Safety

• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready work environment.
• Ensure equipment, tools, and production areas are cleaned and prepared for the next shift.
• Remove waste materials, cardboard, pallets, and excess product from work areas.
• Follow all company safety, sanitation, and hygiene policies.

Job Requirements

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Minimum 3 years of manufacturing experience required.
• Minimum 2 years operating, troubleshooting, or maintaining packaging equipment preferred.
• Experience in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, food, dietary supplement, or regulated manufacturing environments strongly preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Working knowledge of packaging equipment and automated production systems.
• Ability to perform equipment setups, adjustments, and changeovers independently.
• Understanding of preventative maintenance principles.
• Ability to read and follow SOPs, work instructions, and production documentation.
• Knowledge of cGMP regulations and FDA requirements preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to train and mentor team members.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
• Push, pull, bend, twist, kneel, and reach throughout the workday.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to work around moving machinery and manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to wear required PPE for extended periods.