What are the responsibilities and job description for the Machine Operator position at Circle U Foods, Inc.?
About Circle U Foods, Inc.
At Circle U Foods, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality products and outstanding service. Our mission is simple: exceed expectations through innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to food safety.
We’re proud of our inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and empowers our team to thrive. We strive to create an environment that drives accountability and continuous improvement.
With a focus on safety, transparency, and ethical practices, we partner with our customers and stakeholders to build lasting value. Circle U Foods is more than a business—we’re a family dedicated to making a positive impact in our industry and community.
Job Summary: The Packing Machine Operator is responsible for the safe setup, operation, and maintenance of packaging machinery within our food manufacturing facility. This role ensures that packaging lines run efficiently, safely, and in compliance with quality standards. The operator supports production flow through equipment inspections, changeovers, and troubleshooting while also adhering to food safety protocols, sanitation standards, and GMPs. When machines are not running, the operator will support general packaging tasks as needed.
Key Responsibilities and Skills:
- Set up, operate, and break down various packaging machinery including Vertical Form Fill and Seal, Bottling machines, piping, and pumps.
- Assemble piping using sanitary tri-clamps and gaskets.
- Inspect all parts and pumps before assembly for integrity and cleanliness.
- Conduct scheduled deep cleaning of machinery.
- Perform changeovers for different products, including mechanical setup, lot number, and manufacture date adjustments.
- Sign off on QC pouch evaluations during lot changes.
- Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain packaging quality and minimize downtime.
- Document all packing material used (film rolls, caps, bottles) and maintain accurate records.
- Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues.
- Adhere to all food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Support general packaging tasks when machinery is not in use:
o Weigh, label, and manually pack products.
o Stack, label, and prepare cases and pallets.
o Ensure production lines are supplied with materials.
o Clean and sanitize tools, scoops, belts, and work areas.
o Assist with allergen changeovers, repackaging, and relabeling.
o Transport empty/dirty drums to COP station.
o Manage incline belts in the event of spills.
o Communicate with supervisors and team members to support workflow and solve issues.
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
- Minimum 1 year of experience operating and maintaining packaging machinery required.
- Experience in a food manufacturing or packaging environment is required.
- Knowledge of food safety standards, including GMPs and HACCP protocols.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on accuracy and detail.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and operating machinery.
- Frequent bending, lifting, reaching, and twisting to access machinery and materials.
- Manual dexterity to handle tools, components, and packaging materials safely and precisely.
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, hairnets, ear protection, and safety shoes.
- Ability to work around strong food odors and allergens, depending on the product being packed.
- Routine exposure to wet, humid, or dusty environments, especially during cleaning or allergen changeovers.
- Exposure to varying temperatures and noise levels in a food production environment.
Other Duties:
- Follow food safety and quality protocols.
- Follow GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), housekeeping and safe work practices.
- Other duties as assigned.
Benefits:
Circle U Foods offers a benefits package that includes:
- Company paid employee-only health (HMO), dental, vision, and life insurance. A PPO health plan is offered with a cost share.
- Voluntary insurance plans for short-term disability coverage, Accident and Critical Illness.
- Additional voluntary life insurance policy available
- COVID and Flu incentive - 8 hours per vaccination dose
- Accrued Paid Time Off: 0-5 years, 2 weeks; 5-10 years, 3 weeks; 10 years 4 weeks
Equal Opportunity Employer
Circle U Foods, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Conditions of Employment
- Eligibility to Work: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and provide appropriate documentation to complete the I-9 verification process.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
- Transportation Requirement: Applicants must have reliable transportation to and from work to meet job attendance and punctuality requirements.
- Pre-Employment Screening: Candidates must successfully pass a background check and drug test.
COVID-19 Considerations
Vaccination is not required; however, vaccination incentives are offered.
The pay range for this role is:
18 - 18 USD per hour(Fort Worth, TX)
