Packaging Operator

The Position

The Packaging Operator performs the day to day functions of the Packaging department. These functions include operation of a variety of packaging equipment, as well as maintenance and cleaning of all packaging areas. In order to help ensure all aspects of this multifaceted position are performed as expected, measurable metrics will be provided along with regularly scheduled performance reviews. This full-time, permanent position reports to the Packaging Manager.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in completing the daily production schedule
• Assist in the cleaning of bottling/canning/kegging lines
• Perform required adjustments to packaging equipment
• Perform routine maintenance of packaging equipment
• Perform package size changes on packaging equipment
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues
• Understand and conform to safety requirements
• Alert Packaging Manager to potential quality concerns and maintenance issues
• Operate and perform pre-run, run, post-run, and weekly duties and housekeeping on a variety of packaging equipment including, but not limited to: canning/bottle Lines, PakTech, de-palletizer, air compressor, keg machine, cartoner, tray former, and forklift
• Perform other routine tasks to keep the bottling, canning, and keg lines sanitized and in proper working order including, but not limited to: Pre-Run and Post-Run Filler Sanitation; Prepare, change-over, and sanitize machines to be ready for the next shift; Sweep and clean area around equipment; Check for quality and accuracy of produced goods; Follow SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) for each piece of equipment
• Assist other packaging staff as needed to give breaks and fill in at other stations
• Ensure packaging machinery are in good working order, charged (as applicable), and ready for the next day’s operation
• Maintain neat and orderly packaging areas, including the bottling line, canning line, kegging area, warehouse, and all other surrounding work areas
• Adhere to all WISEACRE policies, processes and standards in order to maintain a safe and welcoming work environment for self, co-workers, vendors, and guests
• Other duties and special projects as assigned by Packaging Manager

Equipment

• Wort production is achieved on either a 20bbl JVNW 3 vessel brewhouse (manual) OR a 50bbl BrauKon 4-vessel brewhouse (automated).
• Our fermentation capacity includes an array of 20, 40, 80bbl FV’s with corresponding BBTs at our original facility. Our newer production facility features 200 bbl unitanks.
• We utilize GEA Westfalia centrifuges at both of our locations, as well as a GEA carbonation skid at our newer production facility.
• Packaging equipment includes a Cask filler, Krones Craftmate filler, Pneumatic Angelus seamers, and IDD kegging equipment.

Schedule

• Typical operating hours range between 5 AM - midnight and average shifts run between 7 and 9 hours.
• Most production currently happens between Mon-Fri but we expect to add some weekend and night shifts in the not too distant future so scheduling flexibility is a must.
• Anticipate this role will begin at 18-24 hrs per week but has the potential to grow into full time
• Holidays scheduling varies year-to-year but we generally plan our production schedule to accommodate time off around Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• Veteran’s Day is a paid holiday for all full-time veterans on our staff.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High School diploma or GED required
• 1-3 years manufacturing or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Current forklift driver certification or ability to complete certification within 30 days of employment
• Professional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills required
• Must be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Must be able to operate without distraction in a noisy, heavy trafficked work space.

Bonus Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Deep and abiding love of all things cleaning

Physical Demands

• This position is extremely physical and demanding in nature and involves working with potentially dangerous equipment, machinery, exposure to high noise levels, and handling of hazardous materials
• Must be able to lift and move heavy objects weighing up to 60 lbs and move 165 pounds safely
• Must be able to stand for the duration of a shift, excluding breaks.
• Must be comfortable climbing a ladder, working in tight spaces, stooping, kneeling, crouching, twisting, and bending repeatedly throughout a shift.
• Must be willing to operate in both temperature controlled and temperature uncontrolled environments.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive hourly rates commensurate with experience. We typically offer a training wage of $16/hr to start with increases after 90 days and 1 year of employment, depending on performance. Training wage may vary for highly experienced candidates.
• For full time employees: Company subsidized medical insurance with additional opportunities to enroll in group dental, vision, and short-term/long-term disability insurance. For those who opt in, coverage begins on the first day of the month following your month of hire.
• For full time employees: Paid time off that begins accruing on day 1 and can be used after 90 days on the job. Employees accrue up to 10 days in year 1 with increases after 1 and 5 years of employment.
• Employees are not charged for draft beer in our Taprooms and receive a monthly stipend for to-go beer along with additional discounts on merchandise and food from our restaurant.
• Free on-site parking is available for employees at both locations.

Hiring Timeline

• We will follow up with all qualified applicants within 1 week of receiving your application to set a time for a phone screen and expect to schedule interviews beginning (range) with a goal of extending an offer by (range).
• We are looking to fill 1 position at this time.