Machine Operator I /1st Shift
- Elgin, IL
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Machine Setup & Maintenance Set up machines by loading materials, adjusting dies and films, and configuring settings. Perform mechanical changeovers and monitor machine performance. Troubleshoot issues, report concerns to leadership and assist with repairs to minimize downtime. Conduct weekly or bi-weekly preventive maintenance.
- Production Compliance Follow work orders, quality control standards, and sanitation procedures related to weights, packaging, product descriptions, dates, UPCs, cleanup, and changeovers.
- Quality & Waste Control Perform quality checks and monitor material waste to ensure compliance with standards.
- Team Leadership & Training Direct and instruct line personnel on specific tasks. Train other Level I machine operators.
- Operational Checks & Documentation (5Conduct pre-operational inspections and complete required documentation before and after production runs.
- Performance Standards Consistently meet or exceed production, quality, and safety benchmarks.
- Material Handling & Support Load products into hoppers, stack and pack items, and perform other duties as needed. Train line personnel on job-specific tasks.
- Machine Cleaning Clean machines thoroughly after production runs or changeovers.
- Work Area Maintenance Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready workspace. Perform tasks such as sweeping, mopping, and equipment cleaning. Carry out additional duties as assigned.
- Ensure safe and high-quality food production by adhering to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), allergen and sanitation controls, food defense/fraud protocols, HACCP/FSMA, SQF, and other regulatory requirements.
- Maintain and document preventative controls to support food safety and quality.
- Immediately report any food safety or quality concerns to management.
- Collaborate with team members to share knowledge and skills across functional areas.
- Continuously develop technical, functional, professional, and leadership competencies.
- Comply with all health and workplace safety policies and procedures.
- Promote a safety-first culture by practicing safe behaviors, reporting hazards, and conducting safety observations as assigned.
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Prior inventory experience in a manufacturing environment is essential
- Supervisory experience is MANDATORY
- Stand-up forklift certification preferred
- Ability to lift/move up to 50 pounds occasionally
- Proficiency in Outlook, WMS, and Excel
- Strong math skills including percentages and unit conversions
- Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Health, Dental and Vision Benefits
- Company Paid Life, Accident and Disability Benefits
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Student Loan Repayment Program
- Paid Time Off, Paid Wellness Days, Paid Parental Leaves, Paid Volunteer Time Off
- Family Planning Program and Adoption Assistance Program
- Employee Assistance Programs
- Annual Bonus Plans
- 401(k) Plan with a 4% Company Match
- HSA (with Company Match), Health FSA, and Dependent Care FSA