Equipment Setup Technician

POSITION SUMMARY

The Equipment Setup Technician is responsible for performing equipment set-ups and changeovers to ensure production lines are properly configured, safe, and ready to operate.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Perform equipment set-ups and changeovers according to production schedules and product specifications.
• Adjust, align, and configure processing and packaging equipment for different products and weights.
• Verify equipment readiness prior to start-up; support first-run checks with Production and QA.
• Troubleshoot and resolve set-up-related mechanical issues to minimize downtime.
• Ensure all set-ups comply with GMPs, HACCP, food safety, and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Document set-up parameters, issues, and corrective actions.
• Assist with tear-down and re-assembly during sanitation.
• Communicate effectively with Production, Maintenance, and QA regarding line readiness.
• Support continuous improvement and standard work for set-ups.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS (Knowledge, Skills, and Experience)

• High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training preferred.
• 1–3 years experience in equipment set-up experience in food or meat processing; set-up/changeover experience required. 
• Strong mechanical aptitude: basic electrical knowledge preferred.
• Familiarity with conveyors, packaging equipment, PLC interfaces and automated machinery is a plus.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for extended periods, and work in a cold or humid environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. 

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is required to perform physical activities that involve moving one’s whole body, such as crawling, squatting, kneeling, turning, twisting, using both hands, reaching, and stretching to perform necessary repairs and installations and lifting from 70 pounds or more (unassisted). May frequently need to bend, stoop, crouch, or climb to access machinery or equipment located at different heights or in confined spaces. The employee must be able to walk and stand for a significant amount of time on even concrete surfaces, which may at times be slippery due to marinades, water, and other liquids associated with the production process.

Due to noise levels in the work environment, the use of hearing protection is required.  Precise vision is required for this position to perform detailed visual inspections and repairs of equipment and machinery, and to identify electrical color codes or safety labels. The employee will be working in a climate-controlled environment of -40ºF to -45ºF and may be exposed to heat working around hot machinery or ovens. Employee may be exposed to strong odors such as raw meat and marinades from seasoned meat.

While in the production area, employee is required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to include hair and beard nets, rubber soled shoes, smocks, hearing protection and hard hats.