Packaging Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Location: The Caramel Tree – Rigby, ID
Schedule: Monday–Friday (production-driven; some flexibility during peak seasons)
Hours: Typically daytime (8/9 AM start – end time based on production needs) - 30-40 per week.

At The Caramel Tree, we handcraft gourmet, caramel confections with a commitment to quality. We have 1 retail location, several online channels, and national wholesale. As we grow across multiple brands and channels, we’re building a stronger production team to support higher output and more consistent operations through December 2026.

This is a hands-on production role focused on operating and caring for our packaging and production equipment.

You’ll be responsible for running machines that package our products, keeping them running efficiently, cleaning daily, and handling basic maintenance. You’ll also help keep the facility organized and support the broader production team.

If you like working with equipment, solving problems, and producing real output each day, this role is a strong fit.

• Operate caramel wrappers, flow wrappers, automatic baggers, and other packaging or production equipment.
• Complete equipment setup, calibration, product changeovers, and end-of-run shutdowns.
• Tune machine settings to maintain speed, consistency, seals, registration, package appearance, and product quality.
• Continuously inspect finished packages and correct substandard output immediately.
• Troubleshoot jams, feeding problems, sealing issues, sensor faults, alignment problems, and other operating inconsistencies.
• Perform routine cleaning, sanitation, lubrication, inspection, and preventive maintenance.
• Identify worn or damaged components and communicate parts or repair needs before they cause extended downtime.
• Maintain an organized machine area, including tools, change parts, supplies, and operating materials.
• Track recurring problems and help improve machine settings, procedures, and reliability.
• Minimize downtime, packaging waste, and damaged product.
• Assist with palletizing, staging, facility organization, and other production needs when machine responsibilities are complete.
• Follow all food-safety, sanitation, quality, and workplace-safety procedures.

• Own an important part of the operation: Your work directly affects production capacity, product quality, and our ability to serve customers.
• Work with increasingly automated equipment: We are expanding into larger-scale production with new machines and packaging lines.
• Solve real problems: This is an active role for someone who enjoys improving equipment and processes.
• Grow with the operation: As our equipment and production capabilities expand, there will be opportunities to develop greater technical and operational responsibility.
• See tangible results: At the end of each day, you can see exactly what your work produced.
• It’s candy: You will help make products people genuinely enjoy.

• Mechanical aptitude: You are comfortable learning how equipment works and making hands-on adjustments.
• Ownership: You take responsibility for your equipment and output rather than waiting for someone else to notice a problem.
• Attention to quality: You recognize that a machine running is not enough—the product coming off it must be right.
• Problem-solving ability: You approach problems methodically, try reasonable solutions, and escalate clearly when needed.
• Focus and consistency: You can stay engaged, monitor details, and maintain standards throughout a full production run.
• Reliability: You show up ready to work, complete responsibilities, and follow through.
• Organization: You keep equipment, tools, parts, and work areas clean and ready.
• Physical capability: You are comfortable standing, lifting, moving materials, and working actively throughout the shift.
• Team mindset: You take ownership of your area while also supporting the broader production team.

Previous experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting packaging, manufacturing, food-production, agricultural, automotive, or similar equipment is strongly preferred. Specific machine experience is helpful, but mechanical ability, curiosity, and personal ownership are most important.

• Hours: Typically 30–40 hours per week depending on production needs
• Production Environment: Active, fast-moving, and hands-on
• Peak Seasons: Additional hours may be needed during holidays and high-demand periods
• Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift 40–50 lbs and stay active throughout the shift

By applying to this job, you agree to receive periodic text messages from this employer and Homebase about your pending job application. Opt out anytime. Msg & data rates may apply.