The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing various tasks to set up, operate, and monitor machines and equipment. They will ensure that product and packaging requirements are met safely, efficiently and with minimal waste. Will inspect harvesting or packaging line processes and materials and respond promptly to any machine malfunctions. Will be responsible for the start up and continuous operation of harvesting and packaging equipment while maintaining efficiencies and assist the department in meeting or exceeding daily production goals.

The Machine Operator will be expected to prepare seeding, harvesting and/or packaging machines prior to product run including cleaning, sanitizing, and adjusting as needed within the specified guidelines. The machine operator will fill equipment with packaging materials including corrugated boxes, film, trays, and finished product and stack cases on pallets. The operator may also utilize computerized controls on equipment.

General Knowledge and Skills

• Performs all duties in compliance with plant rules and practices safety, conduct, sanitation, and good housekeeping.
• Capable to work from ladders and scaffolding in a safe manner.
• Capable of operating hand operated MHE such as pallet jacks and stacker units
• Work efficiently and effectively with supervision in a team environment
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear
• Demonstrate mechanical aptitude, problem solving and decision making skills
• Ability to use basic computer software applications
• Legible hand writing required
• Ability to work on a team and interact professionally with others

Duties/Responsibilities

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-speed environment, follow standardized work and adhere to safe work practices in a continuous improvement environment
• Perform necessary pre-operation activities to ensure proper equipment startup and operation
• Operate/monitor specific equipment during operation to ensure quality production and minimal unplanned stops
• Communicate with team members and support teams to ensure continuous production of the correct product at high quality levels with minimal wasted time and materials
• Will keep the work area clean and perform housekeeping and sanitation on equipment
• Inspect raw material and packaging components for defects
• Test finished product for leaks, quality seals and accurate labels
• Perform basic maintenance activities such as lubrication, inspection, and adjustment

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED
• 0-2 years experience as a machine operator or related experience
• Knowledge of GMP/GWP
• Understanding of basic Analytical and Problem Solving skills
• Must be a team player and show attention to detail
• Must be able to work with moderate supervision

Preferred Qualifications

• Associates Degree in a technical field or certification
• Food or agriculture industry experience
• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment

Key Values & Characteristics of Candidates:

• Authentically Green. Candidates must sincerely care about leading the movement to improve the environmental impact of the food supply chain. Candidates must be passionate about creating a healthier planet, environment, and food supply. The background and experience of candidates should reflect a true passion for improving the way we feed Americans.
• Drive to Succeed. Candidates must have hunger and ambition and must get out of bed and want to strongly perform every day, internally motivated. Candidates must demand excellence and strive to achieve greatness. Candidates should have a high clock speed and imbue energy in those around them.
• Humility & Integrity. Candidates must have personal humility and must want the organization to succeed (not focusing solely on personal success). Candidates must care about people and clients and be strong team players. Candidates must possess the highest degree of integrity and must project the proper image of BrightFarms.
• Productive. Colleagues and clients should be quick to describe candidates as famous for getting things done.

Working conditions / Environment / Travel / Schedule required

Greenhouse/Outside/Coolers/Office. Machine Operators will have exposure to seasonal conditions which may range from extreme heat and humidity in the summer to cold in the winter. Work near moving mechanical parts including in the vicinity of occasional high noise environments is required.

Climate: You will be working in the Cooler (35F-40F), Greenhouse (75F-85F), and Headhouse (60F-90F) environments for part or all of your shift and will dress accordingly.

Physical requirements

While performing the duties of this job, employees are expected to sometimes use hands to finger, handle or feel. Frequently standing, walking, reaching with hands and arms, as well as stooping, kneeling, crouching, and climbing. The lifting requirements to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. The employee should have clear correctable vision at close and distance range, as well as peripheral vision to notice safety hazards.

Acknowledgements

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

I have read this job description and fully understand the requirements set forth therein. I understand that this is to be used as a guide and that I will be responsible for performing other duties as assigned. I understand that I am responsible for the satisfactory execution of the essential functions described therein, under any and all conditions as described. I further understand that this job description does not constitute an employment contract with BrightFarms.