Food Operator

Food OperatorThe Food Operator plays a key role in a refrigerated food and beverage production facility that produces hummus and salsa. This position focuses on operating filler machines that dispense product into plastic containers while following strict food safety, quality, and sanitation standards. The role requires comfort working in cold environments, wearing full personal protective equipment, and managing multiple machine-related tasks on 2nd shift.ResponsibilitiesOperate and oversee filler machines that fill plastic containers with food products such as hummus and salsa.Learn and follow the complete production process for making products in the food areas.Follow all SQF and GMP policies and procedures to maintain high food safety and quality standards.Report any food safety or quality concerns to quality personnel or management immediately.Keep supplies neat, organized, and properly protected throughout the shift.Perform wash-down and cleaning of machines according to the changeover flow chart and sanitation procedures.Monitor fill levels and perform periodic weight checks on containers, adjusting weights as needed to meet specifications.Ensure the correct cups and packaging materials are used according to customer requirements.Maintain a sanitation bucket and cleaning materials available at all times while operating equipment.Troubleshoot basic machine issues such as adjusting seals, replenishing cups, and adding lids as needed.Use scales to verify product weights and make adjustments based on adding or subtracting product.Navigate and use computer interfaces related to machine operation, production tracking, or quality checks.Work assigned 2nd shift hours (12:00 pm 8:30 pm or 2:30 pm 11:00 pm) and support production needs as scheduled.Essential SkillsExperience tending to a machine and performing various tasks at once in a production or industrial environment.Basic troubleshooting skills, including adjusting machine seals, adding cups, and adding lids during operation.Ability to lift up to 40 pounds safely and repeatedly during the shift.Comfort using a computer, including navigating applications and basic computer operation.Experience using a scale and understanding weights, including adding and subtracting to achieve correct product weight.Ability to work reliably on scheduled shifts with consistent attendance and dependable transportation.Capability to work in a cold, refrigerated environment while wearing full PPE such as lab coat, hair net, beard net, rubber gloves, and other required protective gear.Attention to detail and commitment to following food safety, SQF, and GMP procedures.Additional Skills & QualificationsIn food and beverage production is helpful but not required.Experience in other industrial settings, such as automotive or manufacturing, is beneficial.Familiarity with industrial equipment such as filling machines and mixers.Exposure to equipment that runs on pneumatics and hydraulics, including working with valves and hoses.Comfort working with inspection tasks and quality checks during machine operation.Ability to perform basic mechanical tasks related to machine operation and minor adjustments.Why Work Here?Employees benefit from a comprehensive benefits package that starts on the first day of the month following the date of hire, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as short-term and long-term disability options. The organization supports financial well-being through HSA and FSA offerings and provides paid time off eligibility, with at least one week of PTO during the first year. Team members join a structured, safety-focused environment where training, clear procedures, and reliable schedules help support stability and work-life balance.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a food and beverage production facility where hummus and salsa are manufactured in refrigerated areas, resulting in a consistently cold working environment. Team members fully suit up in appropriate personal protective equipment, including lab coat, hair net, beard net, rubber gloves, and other required gear when working in food areas. Shifts operate Monday through Friday with mandatory Saturdays and potential Sunday work as production demands. Available shifts include 6:00 am 2:30 pm, 2:30 pm 11:00 pm, and 10:30 pm 6:00 am, with this position focused on 2nd shift hours. The environment emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to food safety standards while working with industrial machinery and scales.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ferndale, MI.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $16.25 - $16.25/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)