Production Technician

Job Description Job Description Job Title: Forklift Operator & Material Handler Job Description Join a dynamic production team as a Forklift & Material Handler, operating and supporting a pack line that processes product from start to finish. You will work with production machinery, handle powders and materials, operate scales, and assist with packaging and palletizing in a physically demanding, dusty, non-temperature-controlled chemical manufacturing environment. This is a fully on-site, contract-to-hire role in Des Moines, Iowa, with significant hands-on responsibilities and exposure to both line work and forklift operation. Responsibilities Operate pack line machinery that processes product from the start to the end, ensuring smooth and efficient production flow. Monitor product as it is loaded into bags, checking for accuracy, quality, and consistency throughout the process. Operate scales to verify and maintain proper product weight in each bag according to specifications. Manually seal bags, ensuring secure closure and adherence to packaging standards. Palletize finished material safely and efficiently, stacking and arranging products for storage and shipment. Ensure proper labeling of all packaged products, verifying that labels are accurate, legible, and compliant with requirements. Handle powders and other materials, including dumping or pumping corrosive liquid and dry materials into tanks as directed. Perform general production duties such as packaging, scale operation, material handling, and heavy lifting as part of daily tasks. Work on the production line approximately 60% of the time, assisting teammates and supporting various line functions as needed. Operate a forklift approximately 40% of the time, moving materials, products, and pallets safely within the facility. Adapt to seasonal workload changes, including spending most of the time on the forklift during busy seasons. Follow written and verbal instructions in English to complete tasks accurately and safely. Maintain a high level of attention to detail to ensure product quality, correct weights, and accurate labeling. Support and assist coworkers on the line, contributing to a cooperative, team-oriented environment. Comply with all safety procedures and guidelines, particularly when working around chemicals, powders, dust, and fumes. Lift and move materials weighing at least 50 pounds regularly as part of daily responsibilities. Remain flexible and productive in an environment where some days are slow and others are extremely busy, often requiring overtime. Participate in contract-to-hire requirements by demonstrating reliability, strong work ethic, and consistent performance over the assignment duration. Essential Skills General production experience with familiarity in working on a pack line or similar manufacturing environment. Machine operation skills, including operating production equipment and scales for packaging and weighing products. Material handling experience, including lifting, moving, and staging materials for production and packaging. At least 2 years of forklift experience, with the ability to operate a forklift safely and efficiently in a manufacturing setting. Ability to handle physically demanding tasks, including lifting at least 50 pounds regularly and performing repetitive motions. Attention to detail to ensure accurate weights, proper labeling, and consistent product quality. Adaptability to varying workloads, including transitions between slower periods and very busy seasons. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions in English accurately and consistently. Comfort working in non-temperature-controlled environments that may be dusty and have strong chemical fumes. Willingness to work significant overtime when needed, especially during peak production seasons. Additional Skills & Qualifications 2+ years of production or manufacturing experience preferred. Experience in landscaping, construction, detasseling corn, or farm work is highly relevant due to similar physical and environmental demands. Experience with packaging operations, including bagging, sealing, and palletizing products. Strong teamwork mindset and willingness to assist anyone on the line to keep production moving. Comfort working with powders, corrosive liquids, and dry materials in a chemical manufacturing environment. Ability to remain reliable and dependable in a fast-paced environment with fluctuating workloads. Openness to a contract-to-hire arrangement with a 480-hour assignment duration. #J-18808-Ljbffr