SUMMARY

The Packaging Specialist is responsible for executing all packaging activities with precision to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality packaging of prepared food products in a USDA-regulated manufacturing environment. The role ensures accuracy in labeling, packaging integrity, compliance with food safety standards, and continuous improvement in line performance. This position supports high-volume operations, promotes operational excellence, and contributes to consistent product quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
Packaging Operations & Line Performance

Operate, monitor, and adjust packaging equipment including tray sealers, weighing systems, form-fill-seal machines, date coders, and labelers. Maintain expected production throughput, accuracy, and packaging efficiency. Conduct routine quality checks including weight control, temperature verification, seal integrity, date coding, and allergen controls. Support accurate and timely line changeovers, ensuring proper materials and specifications are in place. Ensure packaging execution aligns with product specifications and documented requirements.

Food Safety, Labeling & Regulatory Compliance

Follow all USDA, HACCP, GMP, and internal food safety standards. Maintain a clean, organized work environment and uphold sanitation requirements. Escalate any deviations in product, labeling, equipment, or safety immediately.

Continuous Improvement & Waste Reduction

Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve line flow, and enhance equipment efficiency. Participate in improvement initiatives and support standardized work processes. Follow established methodologies for problem-solving and corrective actions.

Equipment Support

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor adjustments to maintain equipment efficiency. Communicate equipment issues promptly to Maintenance with accurate log entries.

Documentation & Reporting

Complete production documentation including counts, waste logs, quality checks, and traceability records. Support accurate material usage reporting and packaging inventory tracking.

Collaboration & Training

Assist in training new team members on packaging procedures, equipment operation, and quality expectations. Work collaboratively with Production, Culinary, Quality Assurance, and Distribution teams.

General Support

Take on additional responsibilities or interim assignments as business needs evolve.

This role offers a salary range of $60,000 – $70,000 annually, based on skills, experience, and location. Employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, generous PTO, and paid holidays.