Machine Operator

Machine Operator

This role focuses on operating and supporting semiautomatic packaging lines, including box forming, closing, and case packing equipment, to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. You provide hands-on support to line leaders through changeovers, quality inspections, machine cleaning, and early detection of safety and quality issues, while consistently meeting production targets in a modern, high-speed manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate one or multiple pieces of production equipment on the semiautomatic line, including box formers, box closers, and case packers, ensuring smooth and efficient production flow.
• Move and handle raw materials to and from the production line, including loading, filling, lifting, and carrying materials as required.
• Provide proactive support and demonstrate leadership in safety and quality by identifying risks and escalating concerns promptly.
• Comply with all applicable safety legal requirements, internal safety standards, and manufacturing procedures in the work area.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderly conditions of machines and the working area before, during, and after each shift, following 5S principles.
• Perform machine operation tasks, including changeovers and fine adjustments, to optimize production on the semiautomatic line.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues quickly and effectively to minimize downtime and maintain continuous production.
• Follow established quality standards, work instructions, and inspection criteria to ensure products meet high-quality requirements.
• Conduct quality inspections, quality checks, and participate in line release audits to verify product and process compliance.
• Collaborate closely with maintenance, engineering, and other support teams to resolve technical issues and improve equipment performance.
• Achieve or exceed standard hourly production results and contribute to meeting overall line performance targets.
• Support line operation activities such as Autonomous Maintenance (AM), basic machine care, and routine preventative maintenance tasks.
• Propose and support implementation of improvements in production processes related to safety, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Use measurement tools such as tape measures and blueprints to verify dimensions and specifications during setup and production.
• Perform minor mechanical repairs and adjustments on production and packaging equipment as needed.
• Handle cardboard and packaging materials safely and efficiently, particularly in high-speed production environments.
• Operate CNC or similar production equipment when required, including understanding and working with CNC programs.
• Follow all site rules regarding personal items and attire while on the production floor to maintain safety and product integrity.
• Participate in training and performance feedback processes to continuously build skills and progress to higher-level operator roles.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Education in Mechatronics, an associate degree, or formal training in CNC operations and packaging equipment, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience with process manufacturing and packaging equipment is ideal but not required.
• Experience with cardboard processing machinery is preferred.
• Familiarity with Autonomous Maintenance (AM), 5S, and continuous improvement practices in a production setting.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and use measurement tools such as tape measures accurately.
• Experience with forklifts and material handling equipment is beneficial.
• Comfort working with mills and other manufacturing equipment as part of a broader production operation.
• Strong focus on safety, quality, and operational excellence, with a willingness to propose process improvements.
• Readiness to participate in structured career paths and progression programs, including training to become higher-level operators, trainers, or supervisors over time.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Colonial Heights, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $22.50/hr. 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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Colonial Heights, VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 24, 2026.