Machine Operator Level 3
Machine Operator III
JOB SUMMARY
The Machine Operator Level 3 is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and troubleshooting production equipment in a food manufacturing environment. This position requires previous machine operating experience, preferably in food manufacturing, with frozen food production experience highly preferred.
The Machine Operator III is expected to work independently, lead equipment changeovers, identify and resolve common operating issues, and help maintain production efficiency while meeting HFG's safety, quality, and food safety standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
• Independently set up, operate, monitor, and troubleshoot assigned production equipment, including scales, baggers, PFM Horizontal Baggers, PMO Cup Lines, and Bowl Lines.
• Perform equipment adjustments and troubleshoot common mechanical or operational issues to minimize downtime, within authorized operating procedures.
• Lead product changeovers, including equipment setup, adjustments, and verification of correct settings for each product run.
• Monitor production performance, identify issues affecting throughput, and communicate concerns to supervisors and Maintenance.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and operational checks before and during production.
• Ensure proper packaging materials, product specifications, and machine settings are used according to customer and quality requirements.
• Accurately complete production documentation, including production records, downtime, finished goods, and operational data using tablets and PLEX.
• Update hourly production performance boards and support established production targets.
• Assist with training and cross-training less experienced Machine Operators on equipment operation, changeovers, troubleshooting, and standard operating procedures.
• Follow established SOPs, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety requirements, and company safety policies.
• Identify and report equipment deficiencies, quality concerns, ingredient issues, and potential safety hazards.
• Work closely with Production, Maintenance, and Quality to resolve operating issues and maintain efficient production runs.
• Support continuous improvement efforts focused on reducing downtime, improving throughput, and minimizing waste.
• Assist with other production responsibilities, including packaging, labeling, palletizing, blending, and general housekeeping, as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
• 3–5 years of hands-on machine operating experience required, preferably in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Food manufacturing experience strongly preferred; frozen food manufacturing experience highly preferred.
• Experience setting up, operating, adjusting, and troubleshooting automated production or packaging equipment.
• Experience performing product changeovers and adjusting machine settings for different products or packaging requirements.
• Ability to independently identify and resolve common equipment and production issues.
• Familiarity with packaging equipment such as scales, baggers, horizontal flow wrappers, cup filling lines, or similar equipment preferred.
• Working knowledge of GMPs, food safety practices, and manufacturing quality standards.
• Ability to read and follow production instructions, equipment settings, SOPs, and product specifications.
• Basic math skills, including weights, measurements, counts, and production calculations.
• Comfortable using tablets, electronic production systems, and entering accurate production information. PLEX experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, Maintenance, Quality, and other production employees.
• Ability to assist with training and supporting less experienced operators.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred, or equivalent relevant manufacturing experience.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and climb stairs throughout shifts lasting approximately 10–12 hours.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds as required for job responsibilities, with appropriate assistance or equipment when necessary.
• Ability to work in a refrigerated production environment, typically 32–36°F.
• Ability to work around moving machinery, production equipment, and manufacturing noise while following required safety procedures.
• Ability to work scheduled shifts, overtime, and weekends as business needs require.
• Ability to perform duties in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining safety and quality standards.