Production Operator

Department: Production
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Production Manager
Supervises: No supervisory duties
Working Hours: Full-time, Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM with a one-hour unpaid lunch and two ten-minute paid breaks
Starting Salary: $17.50 per hour with scheduled raises tied to performance reviews

JOB SUMMARY

The Production Operator is an entry-level member of the Fee Brothers Production Team, responsible for mastering and performing foundational tasks to support the efficient operation of the production line. This position executes daily production activities, including the operation of machinery, adherence to safety and quality standards, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.

Production Operators develop and maintain the skills necessary for operating equipment, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and company-specific standards. Success in this role requires dependability, attention to detail, and aproactive approach, demonstrated by learning and retaining key processes, confidently applying new skills, and taking initiative to support teammates. By consistently demonstrating reliability, adaptability, and a positive mindset, the Production Operator contributes to a cohesive, high-performing production team. This role serves as the foundation for advancement to higher levels within the production team.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Production Operator will be responsible for a variety of essential tasks, including:

Production Line Operations

• Operate manufacturing equipment according to established procedures, including setup, basic adjustments, and routine operation.
• Accurately follow SOPs to bottle, label, package, and handle products in accordance with established requirements.
• Monitor machinery performance and promptly address minor issues or report them to supervisory staff.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance tasks to maintain equipment functionality and workplace sanitation.
• Complete simple adjustments, replenishments, or minor troubleshooting under guidance.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Consistently follow cGMP, SQF, and relevant food safety protocols.
• Verify correct labeling, packaging integrity, and compliance with product specifications.
• Maintain accurate labeling, traceability, and documentation practices.

Team Support and Development

• Retain and apply learned skills while proactively seeking guidance to strengthen
  knowledge and improve performance.
• Maximize opportunities between tasks to assist colleagues, learn from experienced team members, develop new skills, and contribute to a supportive and efficient work environment.

Safety and Materials Handling

• Adhere to all safety protocols, utilizing proper PPE and remaining alert to potential hazards.
• Handle raw materials, supplies, and finished goods efficiently and securely.
• Participate in safety drills, training sessions, and inspections to ensure compliance with workplace safety policies.
• Immediately report any safety concerns or operational issues to supervisory personnel.

In addition to the essential functions outlined above, the Production Operator may be assigned additional responsibilities as needed. Our team-oriented environment values flexibility and adaptability to meet evolving demands and ensure the success of the production team.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

The ideal candidate for the Production Operator position should possess the following qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required, or equivalent experience, training, or education necessary to perform the job successfully.
• Prior experience in a production or manufacturing environment is a plus but not required.
• Experience with food and beverage manufacturing requirements is a plus.
• Forklift experience is a plus; certification may be provided during employment as needed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

The ideal candidate for the Production Operator position will possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Basic understanding of production processes, equipment operation, and safety protocols.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and product quality.
• Ability to retain and apply newly learned procedures, techniques, and best practices over time.
• Ability and commitment to strictly adhere to SOPs, cGMPs, SQF, and food safety standards.
• Clear and effective communication skills to collaborate with team members and follow instructions.
• Capable of working in a fast-paced environment, standing for extended periods, and handling moderate physical demands.
• A genuine drive to see production goals achieved and contribute to the team’s success.
• Positive attitude, adaptability, and eagerness to assist others when tasks are complete or new opportunities arise.
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and positive interactions in a team environment, even under pressure.

BENEFITS

This position is eligible for a range of employee benefits, including:

• Comprehensive and competitive medical insurance options for both individuals and families.
• Participation in the Company’s profit-sharing plan.
• 100% Company-funded dental and vision insurance.
• 100% Company-funded group short-term and long-term disability, as well as group life insurance and AD&D.
• Company contributions to a 401(k) program, which becomes available after one year of employment.
• 11 paid holidays per year.
• Paid time off starting at 80 hours per year for new employees, which increases to 120 hours per year after three years of employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work occurs in a busy production environment with frequent interactions and interruptions.
• Regular physical activities include standing, walking, sitting, handling objects, tools, or controls, reaching with hands and arms, climbing stairs/ladders, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Occasionally required to lift, carry, or move items weighing up to 60 pounds.
• Adherence to company dress code and PPE requirements, including hairnets, beard nets, gloves, and other sanitary gear, is essential to maintain food safety and quality standards.
• Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Work takes place in a moderately noisy environment.