Production Palletizer Operator - Night Shift

Seneca Foods Corporation

JOB OVERVIEW:

As a Production Palletizer Operator at Seneca Foods, you will be responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining the automatic palletizer to ensure finished canned products are stacked correctly, wrapped, labeled, and prepared for warehouse storage or shipment. The operator must ensure product quality, follow food safety regulations, and maintain a safe work environment. The ideal candidate will be reliable, self-motivated, and capable of working independently and with a team within a fast-paced production environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor the automatic palletizer during production.
• Verify the correct pallet pattern and product configuration according to production specifications.
• Inspect pallets, slip sheets, and stretch wrap for quality and proper use.
• Supply empty pallets and packaging materials as needed.
• Monitor pallet labels and ensure they match the production schedule.
• Remove damaged cans, cases, or pallets from the production line.
• Clear palletizer jams safely and efficiently.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and report mechanical issues to Maintenance.
• Complete production and downtime documentation accurately.
• Maintain a clean work area following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.
• Assist with changeovers between products and pallet patterns.
• Communicate production issues to supervisors and other departments.
• Support continuous improvement and efficiency initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous manufacturing or food processing experience preferred.
• Ability to operate automated production equipment.
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read production schedules and work instructions.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and production reporting.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Bend, reach, twist, and climb stairs as required.
• Work in a hot, cold, wet, or noisy production environment.
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of food safety and GMP requirements.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities for Food Safety

• Follow all GMP, HACCP, and sanitation procedures.
• Ensure finished product is handled to prevent contamination.
• Report any food safety or quality concerns immediately.
• Maintain accurate production and traceability records.

Safety Responsibilities

• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures when applicable.
• Report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Operate equipment safely according to company procedures.

Performance Expectations

• Maintain production efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Produce accurate, stable, and properly wrapped pallets.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Demonstrate safe work practices and reliable attendance.
• Work cooperatively with production, maintenance, quality assurance, and warehouse personnel.

Adherence to Hygiene and Safety Standards

• Follow safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
• Identify and report any safety concerns or issues promptly.
• Follow hygiene practices to maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination.

Work Schedule and Grade * Availability for a Monday – Friday shift from 5:54 pm – 6:00 am with additional overtime as needed based on production and customer requirements. This is a grade 3 position.