1. Overall Purpose of the Position

The Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining wax paper, interfold, and finishing equipment in a clean, food-grade manufacturing environment. This role ensures product quality, accurate production reporting in the ERP system, adherence to GMP and food safety standards, and efficient machine performance to meet production goals.

Machine Operators may be cross-trained across multiple production areas including roll handling, interfold, finishing, packaging, and utility functions.

2. Major Tasks and Responsibilities

Machine Operation

• Set up, operate, and monitor wax paper converting, interfold, and finishing machines according to work orders and specifications.

• Perform start-up, changeovers, and shutdown procedures safely and efficiently.

• Monitor product quality, dimensions, counts, and packaging throughout the production run.

• Make minor machine adjustments to maintain speed, alignment, and quality standards.

• Escalate mechanical or quality issues to Maintenance or Supervision promptly.

ERP & Production Reporting

• Accurately enter production data into the ERP system, including:

  • Work order confirmations

  • Scrap reporting

  • Downtime tracking

  • Quantity produced and material usage

• Verify lot numbers and maintain traceability for all food-contact materials.

• Ensure real-time, accurate reporting to support inventory and scheduling.

Quality & Food Safety (GMP)

• Follow all GMP, food safety, hygiene, and contamination-control procedures.

• Maintain a clean workstation and comply with housekeeping standards.

• Perform in-process quality checks and complete required documentation.

• Segregate and report non-conforming product.

Material Handling & Support

• Safely move raw materials and finished goods using pallet jacks or forklifts (if certified).

• Support roll loading, packaging, labeling, and palletizing operations.

• Assist Roll Drivers, Finishers, and Utility Operators as needed.

• Ensure correct packaging, labeling, and pallet configuration for finished goods.

Equipment Care & Safety

• Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance tasks.

• Follow lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and all safety procedures.

• Maintain an organized, hazard-free work area.

3. Secondary Responsibilities

• Cross-train in multiple production roles to support staffing needs.

• Participate in continuous improvement and waste reduction efforts.

• Assist with line clearances and changeover sanitation.

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

4. Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Prior machine operation in manufacturing preferred.

• Experience in food-grade or GMP environments strongly preferred.

• ERP or computerized production reporting experience required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot minor machine issues.

• Strong attention to detail and quality.

• Ability to read work orders, production schedules, and specifications.

• Basic computer skills for ERP data entry.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Commitment to safety, food safety, and productivity.

5. Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for the duration of the shift.

• Frequent lifting of up to 40–50 pounds; occasional lifting up to 60 pounds with assistance.

• Ability to bend, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive tasks.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment.

6. Work Environment

• Clean, temperature-controlled food manufacturing facility.

• Exposure to moving mechanical parts and production equipment.

• Required use of hairnets, PPE, and adherence to GMP standards.

• Moderate noise levels.

7. Certifications & Training

• GMP and food safety training (company provided).

• Forklift certification (if operating powered industrial equipment).

• ERP system training.

8. Performance & Accountability Measures

• Production output vs. standard

• ERP reporting accuracy

• Scrap and waste levels

• Downtime tracking and response

• Quality and audit compliance

• Safety and housekeeping performance

9. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Central Coated Products, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, discipline, and termination.