Shipping Specialist (Core Operations Team Member)

Shipping Specialist (Core Operations Team Member)

Location: Ham Lake, 55304

Employment Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Pay Rate : $19/hour starting

Environment: Fast-paced, hot, humid, dusty environment

About Us

The Bug Company is a leader in the pet industry, specializing in the shipping of live insects for reptile and exotic pet owners nationwide.

We are building a reliable, high-performing core team focused on consistency, safety, accuracy, and long-term employment. As we invest in higher pay and stronger staffing, we are prioritizing individuals who value stability, follow-through, and team accountability.

Position Summary

The Shipping Specialist is a team member who is responsible for preparing, packaging, and shipping live insect orders with a strong emphasis on accuracy, safety, and consistent execution.

This is a hands-on shipping role where safety, reliability, and attention to detail directly impact daily operations and product integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle, assemble, and package live insect orders with care and accuracy
• Ensure all shipments are correct before leaving the facility
• Label and prepare outgoing shipments according to procedure
• Safely load and unload trucks following all safety protocols
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas at all times
• Operate basic equipment: tape guns, packaging tools, and materials safely and efficiently
• Follow established handling procedures for live insects
• Monitor and report safety concerns, inventory issues, or shipping errors immediately
• Meet daily targets as a team while maintaining quality standards

Safety-Focused Work Environment

Safety is a core expectation of this role, not an afterthought.

Employees are expected to:

• Follow all handling and warehouse safety procedures
• Maintain awareness of surroundings in a fast-paced environment
• Use equipment and materials properly at all times
• Immediately report unsafe conditions or process concerns
• Support a clean and controlled workspace to prevent accidents and product loss

We are committed to maintaining a workplace where safety, consistency, and accountability are part of everyday operations.

What We're Looking For (Core Success Traits)

We are hiring for dependability, safety awareness, and consistency first. Strong candidates typically demonstrate:

• Strong attendance and reliability history
• Comfortable working in structured, process-driven environments
• Attention to detail while working with urgency
• Respect for safety rules and procedures without exception
• Ability to stay focused in a repetitive but important workflow
• Team-oriented communication style
• Willingness to learn and follow standardized processes exactly
• Preference for stable, long-term employment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Standing, bending, and repetitive motion throughout shift
• Comfort working in hot, humid, dusty conditions
• Ability to safely handle live insects

Schedule

Full-time, consistent weekly schedule:

• Sunday - Thursday
• 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Hours will fluctuate based on production schedules, shipping schedules, and company needs)

Pay & Benefits

We offer competitive pay to attract reliable, safety-minded, long-term team members (according to company policy)

• $19/hour starting rate
• ESST (Minnesota Earned Sick & Safe Time)
• Minnesota Paid Leave
• Paid vacation
• 7 paid holidays
• Medical benefits
• 401(k) with company match

What Makes This Role Different

We are intentionally building a strong core workforce, not simply filling vacancies.

This means:

• Higher expectations around reliability, attendance, and safety
• Stronger team consistency and predictable operations
• Structured workflows and clear procedures
• Greater investment in long-term employees
• A workplace where quality and safety matter every day

We are offering higher pay because we are prioritizing employees who can consistently support a safe, stable, and high-quality operation.

Ideal Candidate Mindset

This role is a strong fit for someone who is looking for:

• Stable, full-time employment
• A predictable schedule and structured environment
• A safety-focused workplace
• Long-term job stability, not short-term work
• A role where consistency and reliability are valued and rewarded

Hiring Process

• Complete our application questionnaire
• Phone screening (typically same day)
• In-person interview scheduled within the same week for qualified candidates
• Background and reference checks required prior to offer

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Bug Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

At-will employment applies to all positions.