Packaging Associate

Company Overview:

Earnest Machine is a wholesale distributor of industrial metal fasteners that has been serving customers for 78 years. We offer employees the opportunity to make a significant impact within a growth-oriented organization that strongly values accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Job Summary:

The Packaging Associate supports daily packaging operations at the Distribution Center by operating automated bagging equipment, manually packaging product, and preparing materials for packaging. This position is responsible for producing accurate, quality packaging while maintaining expected output, following work instructions, and contributing to a safe, organized, and reliable operation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up, start, operate, and monitor automated bagging and related packaging equipment in accordance with procedures and training
• Package fasteners and related products using automated and manual methods while meeting work-order and customer requirements
• Pick, stage, count, and prepare product and packaging materials for scheduled work
• Inspect product, labels, quantities, seals, and packaging; identify defects or equipment concerns and make permitted adjustments or notify the appropriate team member
• Maintain a consistent work pace and support daily production and output goals without compromising safety or quality
• Read and follow work instructions and complete required production, inventory, and quality records accurately
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area, handle materials properly, follow safety procedures, and report unsafe conditions or equipment concerns
• Coordinate workflow with team members, communicate delays or shortages, and assist with other distribution center needs
• Perform other related duties and special assignments as directed

Essential Qualifications & Skills:

• Previous packaging, distribution, warehouse, or machine-operation experience is preferred. Automated bagging experience is a plus
• Experience with reach trucks or other material-handling equipment is preferred. Required equipment authorization or certification must be completed before independent operation
• Ability to perform general math, count accurately, read labels and work instructions, and follow written and verbal directions
• Ability to recognize packaging or labeling issues and maintain accuracy while working at a productive pace
• Demonstrated attendance, punctuality, follow-through, and willingness to support daily operational priorities
• Positive, respectful, and cooperative approach with the ability to communicate clearly and work effectively as part of a team
• Ability to stand and/or walk for the assigned shift; frequently reach, bend, stoop, handle materials, and perform repetitive hand and arm movements; and lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation