Production Associate

POSITION TITLE: General Helper POSITION STATUS: Full-Time, Permanent, Non-Exempt LOCATION: Liberty, SC DEPARTMENT: Production REPORT TO: Shift Supervisor EFFECTIVE DATE: May 2026 Position Profile Cérélia’s Frozen Breakfast Business Unit – U.S. Waffle – is committed to delivering high-quality frozen breakfast products while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, quality, operational excellence, and employee engagement. To support our growing manufacturing operations in Liberty, South Carolina, we are seeking dependable and motivated Production Associates to join our Production team. The Production Associate plays a critical role in supporting daily manufacturing operations by ensuring products are packaged accurately, quality standards are maintained, and production lines operate efficiently. This position performs a variety of production, packaging, inspection, sanitation, and material handling activities while adhering to all company safety, food safety, and quality requirements. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, quality-conscious, and committed to working collaboratively in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. This role requires flexibility, attention to detail, and a willingness to support operational needs across multiple production areas. This strategic position will report directly to the Shift Operations Supervisor.

1. st Shift - Mon-Fri, 6:00AM - 2:30PM
2. nd Shift - Mon-Fri, 2:00PM - 10:30PM
3. rd Shift - Mon-Fri, 10:00PM - 6:30AM

Primary Responsibilities 1) Production Operations Report to work as scheduled and maintain excellent attendance and punctuality. Follow all company policies, procedures, work instructions, and production standards. Stack finished products according to established specifications and customer requirements. Inspect products for defects and notify leadership of any quality concerns. Pack products into cartons or bags according to customer and production specifications. Replenish cartons, packaging materials, and supplies as needed to maintain production flow. Verify date codes are printed accurately and positioned correctly on packaging. Confirm cartons are properly sealed and immediately report equipment or packaging issues. Apply labels accurately according to production schedules and customer specifications. Assist Production Leads with product changeovers, equipment preparation, and material movement. Perform additional production-related duties as assigned. 2) Food Safety and Quality Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), HACCP requirements, and SQF Food Safety Code requirements. Immediately report any food safety, food quality, or product integrity concerns to Quality Assurance or supervision. Support and maintain a culture of food safety and quality throughout daily operations. Ensure products meet customer specifications and established quality standards. Assist in preventing product contamination and cross-contamination by following approved procedures. Maintain production areas in a clean, organized, and audit-ready condition. Participate in required food safety, quality, and operational training programs. Understand and fulfill individual responsibility for protecting food safety and product quality. 3) Operational Efficiency and Waste Reduction Rework product as directed to minimize waste and maximize yield. Notify supervisors of equipment malfunctions, excessive waste, or process concerns. Continuously maintain cleanliness of the production line and surrounding work area. Assist with material handling and line support activities to maintain productivity goals. Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, and waste reduction. Work overtime, extended shifts, and weekends as business needs require. 4) Safety and Compliance Follow all safety rules, OSHA requirements, and company safety procedures. Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. Immediately report unsafe conditions, accidents, injuries, or near-miss incidents. Participate in safety training and support a culture where safety is the highest priority. Maintain awareness of workplace hazards and contribute to a safe work environment. Core Competencies Drive High Performance : Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and a strong work ethic. Maintains focus on productivity, quality, and operational goals. Takes ownership of assigned responsibilities and follows through on commitments. Collaborate : Works effectively with supervisors and team members. Treats coworkers with dignity, professionalism, and respect. Supports team success and contributes to a positive work environment. Provides and accepts constructive feedback professionally. Can-do attitude : Demonstrates flexibility and willingness to assist where needed. Attention to Detail: Verifies materials, packaging, labels, and product specifications. Consistently follows procedures and work instructions. Identifies and communicates quality or process concerns promptly. Integrity and Dependability: Demonstrates honesty, professionalism, and respect. Follows instructions and company policies consistently. Maintains dependable attendance and punctuality. Qualifications Education High school diploma or GED preferred. Equivalent manufacturing experience may be considered. Experience Previous food manufacturing or production experience preferred but not required. Experience working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment is a plus. Knowledge and Skills Basic mathematical skills required. Ability to read, understand, and follow work instructions and safety procedures. Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers. Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills are preferred but not required. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Physical/Working Conditions & Decision-Making Authority Physical/Working Conditions Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift. Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, reaching, climbing, and repetitive motion activities. Ability to work in hot and cold manufacturing environments. Exposure to flour dust, wet floors, machinery, noise, and occasional smoke or fumes from production processes. Decision-Making/Authority Responsible for identifying and reporting food safety, quality, equipment, and safety concerns. Makes routine operational decisions within established work instructions and procedures. Escalates production, quality, and safety issues to leadership as required. #J-18808-Ljbffr U.S. Waffle Company