Case Palletizer Operator

Case Palletizer Operator

The Case Palletizer Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated case packing, palletizing, and end-of-line packaging equipment used in the production of ice cream and frozen dessert products. This role ensures finished goods are accurately packed, labeled, palletized, and prepared for cold storage and distribution in accordance with quality, food safety, and customer requirements. The Case / Palletizer Operator plays a key role in maintaining packaging line efficiency, product traceability, inventory accuracy, and safe material handling while supporting overall production goals.

Case Packing & Palletizing Operations

• Operate and monitor automated case packers, palletizers, conveyors, stretch wrappers, and related end-of-line packaging equipment.
• Verify correct product, carton, case, and pallet configurations prior to and during production runs.
• Monitor equipment performance to ensure efficient product flow and minimize downtime.
• Perform equipment startups, shutdowns, changeovers, and line clearances according to established procedures.
• Ensure finished products are properly packed, stacked, wrapped, and prepared for transfer to warehouse operations.
• Monitor pallet quality and ensure pallets meet storage and shipping requirements.

Product Identification & Traceability

• Verify product codes, lot numbers, date codes, labels, and pallet tags for accuracy.
• Ensure finished goods are correctly identified and traceable throughout the packaging process.
• Confirm packaging materials match production schedules and customer specifications.
• Accurately document production, quality, inventory, and downtime information.
• Report discrepancies or labeling concerns immediately.

Equipment Operation & Troubleshooting

• Monitor equipment for jams, product accumulation, misaligned cases, pallet defects, or operational issues.
• Perform minor equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to maintain production efficiency.
• Communicate mechanical concerns and downtime issues to Production leadership and Maintenance.
• Participate in routine inspections and preventative maintenance activities.
• Assist with identifying opportunities for process improvements and equipment reliability enhancements.

Warehouse & Production Support

• Coordinate with Warehouse personnel to ensure proper movement and storage of finished goods.
• Stage pallets for removal, storage, or shipment.
• Assist with product changeovers and packaging material replenishment.
• Support packaging line operations during staffing fluctuations or operational needs.
• Maintain uninterrupted product flow from production through palletization.

Quality Assurance & Food Safety

• Conduct routine inspections on cases, pallets, labels, stretch wrap, and package appearance.
• Ensure finished products meet company quality standards and customer requirements.
• Follow all HACCP, SQF, GMP, FDA, and food safety requirements.
• Immediately report product quality concerns, damaged materials, or food safety risks.
• Complete all required production, quality, and compliance documentation.
• Perform cleaning and sanitation activities on palletizing and packaging equipment.

Safety & Teamwork

• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, behaviors, or equipment.
• Work collaboratively with Production, Quality, Warehouse, Maintenance, and Sanitation teams.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and employee training activities.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Position Specifications and Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required

Experience:

• Previous manufacturing or food production experience preferred.
• Experience operating automated palletizing, case packing, conveyance, or packaging equipment preferred.
• Experience in dairy, frozen dessert, beverage, or food manufacturing environments preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to operate automated packaging and palletizing systems.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Understanding of inventory control, product traceability, and labeling requirements.
• Ability to read and follow production schedules, packaging specifications, and work instructions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic computer and data entry skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned to support operational or business needs.

Physical Requirements:

• Subject to up to at least 92db's
• Lifting: up to 20 lbs. occasionally
• Walking: Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, on a regular basis
• Reaching: Extending hands and arms in any direction
• Stooping: Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist occasionally
• Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities that must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly
• Ability to work in ambient, refrigerated, and frozen environments.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work around moving machinery, production equipment, and food processing systems.