1st shift Packaging Technician

Packaging Technician – 1st Shift

Sigma Systems is currently hiring a Packaging Technician for a 6-month contract opportunity in Athens, GA. This is a 1st shift onsite position working Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM (40 hours/week).

This role is ideal for candidates with experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, vaccine packaging, production operations, GMP environments, equipment operation, labeling, and quality inspection. The Packaging Technician will support vaccine production by operating packaging machinery, inspecting products, completing documentation, troubleshooting equipment, and maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards.

Position Details

• Job Title: Packaging Technician
• Location: Athens, GA
• Contract Duration: 6 Months
• Shift: 1st Shift – 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 40 Hours/Week
• Work Arrangement: Onsite
• Industry: Pharmaceutical / Vaccine Manufacturing

Job Summary

The Packaging Technician performs critical manufacturing activities related to the labeling, inspection, and packaging of vaccines and finished products. This position requires experience operating packaging equipment, following cGMP procedures, maintaining accurate production records, and ensuring products meet quality standards.

The successful candidate will be detail-oriented, safety-focused, and comfortable working in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform labeling, inspection, and packaging activities for vaccine products.
• Operate packaging equipment including:
  • Labelers
  • Pick-and-place systems
  • Heat tunnels
  • Vision systems
  • Forklifts and other production equipment
• Ensure packaging equipment operates efficiently and production line targets are achieved.
• Perform equipment setup, adjustments, and changeovers.
• Troubleshoot basic packaging equipment issues and escalate problems as needed.
• Inspect finished products accurately according to quality requirements.
• Complete cGMP documentation, batch records, and production paperwork accurately.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and safety guidelines.
• Perform QA line clearances and support production readiness activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized manufacturing area.
• Maintain equipment and facilities according to established procedures.
• Complete batch tickets and document materials used during production.
• Monitor production processes against manufacturing records and data capture forms.
• Participate in daily team performance reviews.
• Communicate production updates, process issues, inventory needs, and safety concerns to Shift Leaders and Supervisors.
• Support continuous improvement activities and provide feedback on process improvements.
• Cross-train in other department functions as required.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• Associate degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing experience.
• 2–3 years of manufacturing experience required.
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device, or regulated manufacturing preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and quality-focused mindset.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and manufacturing processes.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to follow written procedures and maintain accurate documentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Forklift certification preferred.
• Experience working in a cGMP/FDA-regulated environment.
• Experience with packaging lines, automated equipment, and batch documentation.