Prep Machine Operator

Job Summary

• The role of Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient operation of various packaging and food processing machines. These responsibilities include (but are not limited to) machine set up, changeover, cleaning, and shut down activities.
• This position reports directly to the Production or Packaging Supervisor that is assigned to their particular area.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operating the machinery used for packaging products in the manufacturing area daily.
• Perform cleaning, inspection, and lubrication of equipment.
• Starting up and stopping the machine as necessary, including refilling packaging material.
• Performing routine checks to ensure that the machine is in an operable state.
• Executing preventative maintenance on the machine and maintaining the cleanliness of equipment and the work area.
• Be able to quickly learn and explain the operating principles for assigned equipment.
• Understand and perform manufacturer related sanitation and assembly tasks on equipment.
• Follows all Good Manufacturing Practices as stated within the policy.
• Follows all Safety rules & procedures by working safely and ensuring the safety of others.
• Ensuring the correct packaging is used for specific product ranges and that packaging is done in line with the company standards.
• Inspecting final products.
• Reporting faulty packaging or problems on the machines to the relevant supervisors.
• Moving of completed boxes of products to the correct inventory area.
• Adhering to the safety regulations and protocol implemented in the packaging area.
• Completing all relevant documentation on the packing and maintenance of the packaging machines.

• 1+ years’ experience as a machine operator in a manufacturing facility. Preferably in food packing.
• A high school diploma or GED.
• A license to operate a forklift will be an advantage.
• A clear understanding of basic troubleshooting and machine maintenance.
• Skillful in stock management and storage processes.
• A clear understanding of health and safety standards and protocols.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Willingness to work in shifts.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to carry packed boxes up to 50 lbs.
• Demonstration of minimum proficiency with the English language in order to ensure effective new hire training and ongoing communications about safety and quality issues.

• Strong mechanical aptitude; ability to troubleshoot machine logic issues.
• A forklift certificate will be an advantage.

• Self-starter able to conceptualize and drive initiatives forward.
• Positive attitude and motivated by contributing to the overall success of the team.
• Able to develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail, well organized and able to juggle many projects at once.
• Comfortable moving at a fast pace and in ambiguous environments.
• Must be dependable, trustworthy, able to bring energy to the performance of a task and able to show consideration for and maintain good relations with others.
• Passionate about food.

Kettle Cuisine complies with all aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state disability laws. This means we will not discriminate against qualified individuals with a disability in any phase of the employment relationship including application for employment, hiring, promotions and/or advancement opportunities, termination, compensation, training and any other conditions or privileges of employment.

The Prep Machine Operator base pay range $19.00/hourly. The listed salary range represents Kettle Cuisine’s good faith estimate for this position and represents the minimum and maximum for new hire salaries for the Savage, MD location only. Ranges will be reviewed on a regular basis. An employee’s rate of pay within the range is determined by their qualifications, relevant experience, and demonstrated performance over time.

In addition to those factors, we believe in the importance of pay equity and consider internal equity of our current team members as a part of any final offer. Hiring at the maximum of the range would not be typical to allow for future and continued salary growth. The Prep Machine Operator position is eligible for our comprehensive benefits package.

Kettle Cuisine and all its legal entities comply with all federal, state, and local minimum wage laws.