Equipment Set Up Technician

Division Information

The Pet Care division of Spectrum Brands is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, with a strong network of manufacturing, distribution, and sales operations across the United States and around the world. We are passionate about improving the lives of pets and the people who love them, supporting households with dogs, cats, birds, small animals, fish, and reptiles.

Our trusted portfolio includes industry-leading brands such as Tetra, Instant Ocean, Marineland, 8-in-1, Dingo, FURminator, Nature's Miracle, Glo Fish, Dream Bone, and Smart Bones-brands pet owners rely on for quality, innovation, and trusted results.

At Spectrum Brands, you'll be part of a team that values collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement, with opportunities to grow your skills while making a meaningful impact in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Job Summary

The Equipment Set Up Technician is responsible for performing product changeovers, machine set-ups, tooling adjustments, and equipment modifications to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production operations. Working in compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs), and safety standards, this role ensures machinery is properly configured to meet production requirements and quickly troubleshoots operational issues during product runs to minimize downtime.

This position plays a key role in supporting production workflow by coordinating equipment readiness, assisting team members across essential functions, and helping drive continuous improvement within the department. The Equipment Set Up Technician is responsible for prioritizing workflow in assigned areas, maintaining operational efficiency, and supporting the shift team through structured lean manufacturing practices and effective day-to-day execution.

Primary

Duties & Responsibilities

* Model Spectrum Brands' values and behaviors while supporting a culture of safety, quality, teamwork, and operational excellence.

* Perform machine set-ups, product changeovers, tooling adjustments, and equipment modifications to support production requirements.

* Monitor, test, troubleshoot, and diagnose machinery or equipment issues using appropriate tools, testing devices, manuals, and technical resources.

* Resolve operational and mechanical issues quickly and effectively, including equipment malfunctions, process disruptions, and operator-related issues, to minimize downtime.

* Maintain a strong working knowledge of production equipment, manufacturing processes, SOPs, cGMP requirements, and safety standards.

* Ensure production equipment is operating safely, efficiently, and producing quality products with minimal supervision.

* Perform preventive maintenance tasks and minor equipment repairs in accordance with established procedures, job aids, and manufacturer guidelines.

* Support production uptime and efficiency by identifying opportunities for process improvements, equipment enhancements, and waste reduction.

* Partner with Team Coordinators, Supervisors, Maintenance, and Production teams to improve line performance, troubleshoot recurring issues, and implement operational improvements.

* Assist with packaging validations, line trials, equipment testing, and special projects related to process optimization or new product implementation.

* Effectively prioritize workflow and manage assigned responsibilities to align with departmental production goals and business needs.

* Maintain clear and effective communication across shifts and within the department to ensure operational continuity and awareness of production priorities.

* Promote lean manufacturing principles through continuous improvement efforts, simplification of processes, elimination of non-value-added activities, and support for new technologies or equipment implementation.

* Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while proactively identifying and addressing unsafe conditions.

* Collaborate with team members to achieve company goals related to safety, quality, production performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

* Provide support in other departments or operational areas as needed based on business demands.

Education and Experience Profile

* High school diploma or GED required.

* Minimum of one year of experience in a manufacturing environment or a similar mechanical/technical role preferred.

* Experience with machine set-ups, changeovers, troubleshooting, or equipment adjustments preferred.

* Basic mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and resolve equipment or process-related issues.

* Ability to read and interpret work instructions, SOPs, technical manuals, and job aids.

* Familiarity with cGMP, safety standards, or regulated manufacturing environments is a plus.

* Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and make sound decisions in a fast-paced production environment.

* Effective communication and teamwork skills with the ability to…