Packaging Machine Operator

Location: Meriden, CT

Reports to: Senior Manager of Bagel Production

Role type: Full-Time

About PopUp Bagels

PopUp Bagels is not just a bagel company—we’re a cultural movement. Our stores are small, our vibes are loud, and our energy is contagious. From signature neon and iconic bullhorns to our “Not Famous but Known” mirror, we’ve reimagined not just how a bagel is created, but how it’s enjoyed: Grip, Rip and Dip! With a cult-like following, massive social presence, and unparalleled collaborations with top companies, partners and Brand Ambassadors PopUp Bagels is defining a new food lifestyle brand.

We keep things simple, but we do them really, really well. And our customers agree.

The Role

The Packaging Machine Operator role is responsible for the efficient operation of product bagging equipment. This includes configuring the machine for various bag sizes, monitoring high-speed production (up to 120 bags per minute), and performing routine maintenance to minimize downtime.

Essential Responsibilities:

· Machine Setup & Changeovers: Install and align film rolls, adjust forming tubes (e.g., for different bag widths like 7", 8", or 10"), and configure control systems via color touchscreens.

· Production Monitoring: Oversee the "Measure, Form, Pull" film advance process to ensure consistent bag length and seal integrity.

· Quality Control: Conduct hourly checks on seal temperatures, bag weights, and code dates (using thermal or ink-jet printers) to meet company and regulatory standards.

· Routine Maintenance: Perform basic troubleshooting of mechanical and pneumatic issues, clean the machine during changeovers, and ensure all safety guards are functional.

· Sanitation: In food-grade environments, adhere to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and HACCP standards, especially when operating Ultima SVJ Sanitary models.

Required Education, Experience, and KSAs:

· Experience: 1–3 years of experience operating VFFS or similar packaging machinery (Hayssen-specific experience is highly preferred).

· Technical Aptitude: Ability to read technical manuals, use basic hand tools (wrenches, calipers), and navigate PLC-based computerized interfaces.

· Education: High School Diploma or GED; technical certification in industrial machinery is a plus.

Physical Requirements

The following physical requirements are representative of those that must be met to perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with qualifying disabilities.

· Physical Requirements: Capacity to stand for long shifts (8–12 hours), lift up to 50–60 lbs (e.g., film rolls), and work in varied environments (refrigerated or loud production floors).

Additional Role Note:

The duties of this position may change from time to time. PopUp Bagels reserves the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities at the discretion of PopUp Bagels or its managers. This job description is intended to describe the general work level. It is not intended to be all-inclusive.

PopUp Bagels is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, age, ancestry, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related condition, unemployment status, gender identity or expression, transgender status or gender dysphoria, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, national origin, citizenship, disability, covered veteran and/or military status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, familial status as that term is described under other protected statuses or any other characteristic as protected under applicable federal, state and local law.

PopUp Bagels conducts pre-employment screenings in compliance with local, state, and Federal laws, and utilizes eVerify to confirm U.S. Employment eligibility.