Liquid Machine Operator

ILLES Foods Job Description

Job Title: Liquid Machine Operator

Reports To: Liquid Production Supervisor

FLSA: Permanent, Full Time, Non-Exempt

Specializing in custom-crafted culinary solutions—from beverage bases and sauces to marinades and seasonings—ILLES Foods has partnered with food service chains, manufacturers, and retailers across the U.S. since 1927. Our Food Innovation expertise, creativity, and speed to market, combined with a laser focus on customer experience, make us a key partner in product development. As a family-owned, woman-run business, our growth is fueled by deeply held values: operating with integrity, maintaining intentional curiosity, and strong relationship building through the power of partnership.

At ILLES Foods, we strive to be the ingredient that elevates food and enriches the lives of our partners, internal and external.

The Successful candidate is responsible for set-up and operation of at least 2 filling/packaging machines used in production, in accordance with process and quality standards to meet production schedules assigned. They will perform production activities and operate production equipment in accordance with BRC requirements, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s), as well as all Illes SOP’s, Safety and Quality standards and time sequences.

Partner conducts themselves in a manner that is aligned with Illes Foods Core Values:
Operate with Integrity, Stay Intentionally Curious, and Believe in the Power of the Partnership.

• Verify bulk materials, packaging components, and labels against batch sheet
• Load correct label files, input variable data, and get FSQA label approval
• Set up and operate up to two packaging machines per standard settings
• Perform job changeovers and monitor production for safety and efficiency
• Inspect materials and products for seal integrity, print quality, and weight
• Conduct seal leak tests and collect samples for QA
• Operate HMI systems; adjust machines and maintain SPC charts
• Load materials, fill packages accurately, and stack finished goods on pallets
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and follow safety/health standards
• Accurately record production data in Rite Time and Ross
• Operate or learn to operate filling machines and forklifts
• Follow GMP, food safety, and quality standards at all times
• Maintain professional verbal and written communication
• Regular attendance required; perform other tasks as assigned

• Time management & reliability:
  Consistently meets production schedules; completes setups, changeovers, and documentation on time; maintains reliable attendance
• Safety & compliance:
  Follows BRC, GMP, SOP, food safety, and quality standards; maintains clean equipment and safe work practices at all times
• Communication (verbal/written):
  Communicates clearly with FSQA, supervisors, and team members; records accurate production data in Rite Time and Ross.
• Customer service (active listening):
  Listens attentively to instructions, feedback, and quality requirements; ensures packaging meets customer and quality expectations.
• Inventory management:
  Verifies bulk materials, packaging components, and labels; loads correct materials and minimizes waste through accurate handling.
• Flexibility/adaptability:
  Adjusts to job changeovers, machine assignments, and shifting production needs; learns additional equipment as required.
• Digital literacy:
  Operates HMI systems; inputs variable data, maintains SPC charts, and documents production accurately in digital systems.
• Problem-solving (critical thinking):
  Troubleshoots machine and process issues; evaluates options and takes corrective action to maintain efficiency and quality.
• Team coordination:
  Works in sync with production, QA, and support teams; supports smooth handoffs and continuous line operation
• Conflict resolution:
  Addresses minor operational or workflow issues professionally to maintain team alignment and uninterrupted production.

High School or Equivalent or the ability to obtain same within specified time. 0-2 years Food Industry Experience plus a minimum of 6 months Packaging Equipment experience required.