MACHINE OPERATOR I (2nd shift 3:30pm start time)

Machine Operator Level 1

Lifeway Foods, which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces cheese, drinkable yogurt, and a ProBugs line of Kefir for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

The Machine Operator Level 1 must have the ability and desire to follow directions and work cooperatively with the production team as they operate certain machinery according to guidelines and safety rules. Level 1 will be solely responsible for the operation of the "ProBugs" and basic cheese machines.

Schedule: Second Shift: Monday through Friday 3:30pm - finish production (including occasional Saturdays)

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Report to workstation on time and wear proper work attire
• Setting up work area by making sure the machines are assembled
• Follow SOP, SSOP, GMP, and general safety policies
• Verify machine parts are sterilized with liquid sanitizer
• Assemble machine parts together in the morning
• Supply materials to rails, conveyors, hoppers, or other feeding devices and unload packaged product
• Verify kefir pouches have correct lot number, expiration date, weight, and vat number
• Verify printer labels are displaying the correct information for kefir and cheese products
• Regulate machine flow, speed, and temperature
• Stop or reset machines when malfunction occurs, clear machine jams, and report malfunctions to a supervisor
• Observe machine operations to ensure quality and conformity of filled or packaged products to standards
• Monitor the production line, watch for problems such as pile ups or jams
• Monitor that machine sensors and printers work properly
• Inspect and remove defective products and packaging material
• Remove finished packaged items from machine and separate rejected items
• Stack finished packaged items in milk crates and wrap protective material around each pallet
• Stock and sort product for packaging or filling machine operation and replenish packaging supplies
• Clean packaging containers, filler lines, and disassemble the machines
• Complete all assigned production tasks accurately
• Additional Duties as assigned

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to actively listen to instructions and understand basic English

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 6 months to 1-year experience in similar role

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift 50lbs
• Ability to be on your feet for an 8-hour shift
• Ability to climb on ladders and maneuver through equipment
• Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and holidays

Lifeway Foods, Inc. is a growing Chicago-based beverage manufacturer with over 25 years of experience. We are an industry leader in the production of high-quality Kefir. We are an equal opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package.