Material Handler

Material Handler

The Material Handler supports a GMP food manufacturing environment by accurately handling, staging, and compounding raw materials for production. This role uses computer systems, ERP tools, barcode scanners, and material handling equipment to receive, move, weigh, and fill liquids and powders into tanks according to precise formulas and work orders. The position requires strong attention to detail, safe forklift operation, and consistent adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Use computer systems and related documentation to support material handling, batch processing, and order fulfillment.
• Fill liquids and powders into tanks following detailed formulas and manufacturing instructions.
• Use scales to obtain accurate measurements of liquids and raw materials, ensuring each ingredient is weighed according to the formula.
• Select appropriate tanks based on manufacturing requirements and batch size.
• Pick required raw materials from the raw material warehouse according to formulas and work orders.
• Scan raw materials using handheld barcode scanners to verify lot numbers and quantities for accuracy.
• Stage raw materials in the compounding area and add them to tanks in the correct sequence and quantities as specified in work order instructions.
• Operate forklifts (stand-up and sit-down) to move products and raw materials safely around the production floor and warehouse, as needed.
• Receive products using a forklift and place them in designated storage or staging areas.
• Retrieve raw materials from the warehouse to the compounding area based on compounder requirements.
• Return unused or partially used raw materials to the warehouse after compounders complete their work.
• Conduct cycle counts on raw materials to help maintain accurate inventory levels.
• Fill and pack orders according to sales orders, ensuring accurate weights, correct sifter screens, and proper labels are used.
• Handle written compounder materials and batch records with precision, reviewing documents carefully for completeness and accuracy.
• Operate mixing, blending, batching, and related production equipment as needed in a food or GMP environment.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), safety guidelines, and all applicable procedures at all times.
• Apply training in forklift safety, respirator protection, lockout procedures, and GMP standards during daily tasks.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and support overall production efficiency.
• Remain open to cross-training and assist in different departments as business needs require.
• Lift and move materials, including large blenders and other equipment, weighing up to 50 lbs on a regular basis.
• Work comfortably around food ingredients, chemicals, and various smells commonly present in a GMP food manufacturing setting.

Essential Skills

• Ability to use computer systems for material handling, documentation, and ERP-related tasks.
• Experience working in a warehouse or logistics environment, preferably with material handling equipment.
• Proficiency in operating forklifts, including stand-up and sit-down trucks, in a production or warehouse setting.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs consistently, including lifting large blenders and other equipment.
• Prior experience with compounding, blending, batching, or machine operation in a food or GMP environment.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and handheld barcode scanners for inventory and lot tracking.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in a food or similar regulated manufacturing environment.
• Training or experience in forklift safety, respirator protection, lockout procedures, and general safety practices.
• Strong attention to detail when reviewing batch records, work orders, and labels.
• Comfort working around food manufacturing processes, including exposure to various smells and chemical or food ingredients.
• Ability to follow detailed formulas, work instructions, and safety guidelines accurately.
• Capability to work in a structured, process-driven production environment and maintain compliance with all procedures.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with mixing, blending, batching, or compounding in a production environment.
• Background in food manufacturing or other GMP-regulated industries.
• Experience operating production machinery, blenders, or similar equipment.
• Familiarity with RF scanners and other warehouse scanning technologies.
• General labor experience in manufacturing, logistics, or material handling.
• Ability to adapt to cross-training and support multiple departments as needed.
• Comfort wearing GMP-related protective gear and working in a highly controlled environment.
• Strong organizational skills to support accurate staging, storage, and return of raw materials.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing safety and GMP training.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and professional growth of employees and their families. Eligible employees have access to medical, dental, and vision coverage, including prescription drug benefits, along with Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts. The benefits program includes short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, and coverage such as Accidental Death & Dismemberment, accident insurance, and critical illness insurance. Employees can build their financial future through a 401(k) plan with company matching and an education savings plan. Work-life balance is supported through paid time off and paid holidays. The company invests in career development by providing educational assistance, professional development opportunities, employee discounts, and service recognition programs that reward long-term commitment and contribution.

Work Environment

This role operates in a GMP food manufacturing environment with structured processes and strict quality standards. Employees work on a production floor and in warehouse areas, handling raw materials, liquids, powders, and finished products. The position involves working with mixing, blending, batching, and other production equipment, as well as forklifts, ERP systems, handheld barcode scanners, and RF scanners. The schedule includes a first shift from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and a second shift from 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with a shift differential for second shift. The environment requires consistent adherence to GMP practices, including wearing appropriate protective gear such as hair nets and beard nets where applicable. Employees must be comfortable with food manufacturing conditions, including exposure to various smells and working around chemicals and food ingredients, while maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, and organization.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of NORTHBROOK, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $24.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in NORTHBROOK, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 12, 2026.