Machine Operator

Business Unit Overview At Crystal Farms Dairy Company we harbor a passion for quality food and seek out the very best talent that fosters the company’s culture of ownership and accountability. We offer exciting job possibilities throughout our organization where you can enhance your career, sharpen your talents and make an impact. Whether working on a new product, interacting with consumers, or giving back to the community - passion for cheese is always present in all we do. Responsibilities Position Summary A Machine Operator’s duties and responsibilities dictate the safety and efficiency of everyone around them. Machine Operators must remain focused and diligent in performing their tasks correctly and with care to keep everything running smoothly. Their duties and responsibilities may include: Key Responsibilities Machine Setup & Operation: Loading labels and managing machine speed for accurate placement. Setting up manufacturing equipment for daily use Maintaining equipment and machinery so they can operate safely Training and overseeing other employees on specialty machines Maintaining the understanding of operating procedures for their machines Proposing improvements to the process of machines as needed Reporting safety hazards within the work environment Perform all job duties assigned Equipment Operation Coordinate daily production activities to meet schedules, output goals, and quality standards. Monitor equipment operation and collaborate with maintenance for timely repairs or adjustments. Ensure all batch records, production logs, and documentation are completed accurately and on time. Assist in line startups, changeovers, shutdowns, and troubleshooting process issues. Serve as the communication link between team members and supervisors regarding performance, staffing, and process changes. Pro mote a positive, team‑focused environment with an emphasis on accountability and continuous improvement. Quality & Inspection Perform visual inspections of product and packaging to identify defects, contamination, or foreign material. Verify package integrity, including seals, closures, and material quality. Complete routine quality checks including weight verification and packaging appearance. Immediately escalate any nonconforming product or equipment issues. General Responsibilities Follow all GMPs, food safety procedures, and plant safety guidelines. Complete required production and quality documentation accurately and on time. Assist with equipment changeovers, cleaning, and line setup. Perform basic troubleshooting and communicate equipment issues to maintenance. Maintain an orderly, clean, and safe work area. Support continuous improvement efforts related to efficiency, quality, and safety. Qualifications Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (10–12 hours per shift). Frequent bending, lifting, twisting, reaching, and repetitive tasks. Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs occasionally and 25 lbs frequently. Ability to visually inspect products, labels, and packaging for accuracy. Experience with continuous improvement tools (Lean, Six Sigma, 5S). Understanding of mechanical processes or basic troubleshooting skills. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Meet or exceed planned throughput and minimize downtime to meet OEE target established for the line. Quality Compliance: Meet or exceed Right the First Time and Quality Compliance targets established for the line. Waste Reduction: Maintain packaging waste below department standards. Safety Performance: Zero safety incidents and full PPE compliance. Changeover & Setup Time: Complete changeovers within established times and minimize delays. Teamwork & Communication: Communicate effectively and support problem-solving efforts. Qualifications Prior manufacturing or packaging experience preferred. Great communication for working with others on the job Excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot potential issues Resourcefulness in learning new manuals and processes Outstanding attention to detail with the ability to understand mechanics and technical tasks Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety. Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment. Ability to speak and read English Position Summary A Machine Operator's duties and responsibilities dictate the safety and efficiency of everyone around them. Machine Operators must remain focused and diligent in performing their tasks correctly and with care to keep everything running smoothly. Their duties and responsibilities may include: Key Responsibilities Machine Setup & Operation: Loading labels and managing machine speed for accurate placement. Setting up manufacturing equipment for daily use Maintaining equipment and machinery so they can operate safely Training and overseeing other employees on specialty machines Maintaining the understanding of operating procedures for their machines Proposing improvements to the process of machines as needed Reporting safety hazards within the work environment Perform all job duties assigned Equipment Operation Coordinate daily production activities to meet schedules, output goals, and quality standards. Monitor equipment operation and collaborate with maintenance for timely repairs or adjustments. Ensure all batch records, production logs, and documentation are completed accurately and on time. Assist in line startups, changeovers, shutdowns, and troubleshooting process issues. Serve as the communication link between team members and supervisors regarding performance, staffing, and process changes. Pro mote a positive, team‑focused environment with an emphasis on accountability and continuous improvement. Quality & Inspection Perform visual inspections of product and packaging to identify defects, contamination, or foreign material. Verify package integrity, including seals, closures, and material quality. Complete routine quality checks including weight verification and packaging appearance. Immediately escalate any nonconforming product or equipment issues. General Responsibilities Follow all GMPs, food safety procedures, and plant safety guidelines. Complete required production and quality documentation accurately and on time. Assist with equipment changeovers, cleaning, and line setup. Perform basic troubleshooting and communicate equipment issues to maintenance. Maintain an orderly, clean, and safe work area. Support continuous improvement efforts related to efficiency, quality, and safety. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (10-12 hours per shift). Frequent bending, lifting, twisting, reaching, and repetitive tasks. Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs occasionally and 25 lbs frequently. Ability to visually inspect products, labels, and packaging for accuracy. Experience with continuous improvement tools (Lean, Six Sigma, 5S). Understanding of mechanical processes or basic troubleshooting skills. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Meet or exceed planned throughput and minimize downtime to meet OEE target established for the line. Quality Compliance: Meet or exceed Right the First Time and Quality Compliance targets established for the line. Waste Reduction: Maintain packaging waste below department standards. Safety Performance: Zero safety incidents and full PPE compliance. Changeover & Setup Time: Complete changeovers within established times and minimize delays. Teamwork & Communication: Communicate effectively and support problem-solving efforts. Qualifications Prior manufacturing or packaging experience preferred. Great communication for working with others on the job Excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot potential issues Resourcefulness in learning new manuals and processes Outstanding attention to detail with the ability to understand mechanics and technical tasks Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety. Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment. Ability to speak and read English