Packaging Operator

Packaging Operator – (Monday - Thursday 6am - 4:30pm)

POSITION TITLE: Packaging Operator POSITION STATUS: Full-Time, Permanent LOCATION: Hazelwood, MO DEPARTMENT: Operations REPORT TO: Production Supervisor EFFECTIVE DATE: April 2026

Cérélia's newly established Frozen Breakfast Business Unit – US Waffle Company – is driving an ambitious growth strategy, backed by two manufacturing facilities, Liberty, SC, and Hazelwood, MO. To effectively support the rapid scaling of operations at our state‑of‑the‑art Hazelwood facility, US Waffle is seeking a Packaging Operator to join our team in Hazelwood, MO.

The Packaging Operator is responsible for executing daily packaging operations, supporting line performance, and adhering to all plant policies and procedures. This role is accountable for always complying with safety work rules and reinforcing safety as a core value, ensuring that all policies, procedures, and activities related to EHS, Food Safety & Quality, and Operations are followed.

This role is responsible for contributing to the success of the manufacturing site in the areas of safety, quality, efficiency, and service. The Packaging Operator ensures the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment while maintaining product quality and compliance with all food safety standards.

• Assume personal responsibility for a safe and healthy workplace by actively ensuring policies and procedures are followed.
• Adhere to quality work practices, follow GMPs, maintain sanitary conditions, and ensure product quality is consistently achieved.
• Operate, monitor, and adjust packaging equipment (wrappers, cartoners, case packers, palletizers) to meet production standards.
• Perform equipment start‑up, changeovers, and shutdown procedures in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Ensure all products meet specifications for weight, seal integrity, coding, and overall appearance.
• Monitor line performance and take action to minimize downtime and material waste.
• Identify and elevate equipment issues, quality concerns, and safety risks in a timely manner.
• Support troubleshooting efforts and collaborate with maintenance and quality teams to resolve issues.
• Accurately complete all required production, quality, and downtime documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and audit‑ready work area at all times.
• Follow all plant policies, procedures, and standard work instructions.
• Communicate effectively with team members and leadership to support operational goals.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to improve safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned or of a similar nature or level.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–3 years of experience in a manufacturing or food production environment preferred.
• Experience operating packaging equipment is preferred.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Working knowledge of GMPs, food safety, and quality standards.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment.
• Strong communication skills and ability to elevate issues appropriately.
• Must be able to work with a sense of urgency and drive results.
• Proficient in basic computer systems for data entry and documentation.
• Ability to give and receive constructive feedback.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a results‑oriented, challenging environment.

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.

• Exposure to flour, oil, heat, cold and normal production chemicals, and hazards.
• Hair nets, ear plugs/muffs, gloves, boots, aprons and/or safety glasses/goggles may be required.
• Ability to frequently handle material from floor‑to‑waist, waist‑to‑shoulder, shoulder‑to‑overhead and pushing/pulling/carrying.
• Ability to constantly stand/walk; bend/flex/extend/twist neck and back; frequently grip/reach/lift/pull with L/R hands.
• Ability to tolerate…