Packaging Line Operator

Packaging Operator

Location: East Boston, MA (in the Boston Harbor Shipyard)

Schedule: Full-time, 8 hour shifts Monday-Friday, first shift (6am-2pm), second shift (2pm-10pm), third shift (10pm-6am)

*Availability for at least 2 of the 3 shifts is required for consideration, bonus points for full 3 shift availability*

Pay Rate: starting rate is $20 per hour, with additional pay depending on prior packaging experience and shift differentials for 2nd shift ( $0.50/hr) and 3rd shift ( $2.50/hr)

The Packaging Operator is an essential role on the rapidly growing team at Downeast Cider, the #1 craft hard cider brand in the Northeast and the #2 hard cider in the country. The packaging team is fully responsible for operating the canning line and kegging station. Our equipment runs at high speeds (267 cans per minute!), requiring attention to detail and the ability to perform repetitive tasks efficiently. Sometimes deadlines need to be met, or tanks need to be emptied, and the team stays until the job is done. We’re looking for team members who bring a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and the ability to stay focused—even in challenging situations.

Successful Packaging Operators often grow into leadership roles within the team. This role offers hands-on training with high-tech, state-of-the-art packaging equipment, exposure to other departments, and opportunities for cross-training.

What You’ll Do:

Operate canning and kegging equipment safely and according to established procedures

Clean and maintain packaging equipment and workspaces

Enter packaging data through web-based forms and maintain records in spreadsheets

Assist the warehouse by operating forklifts to stage raw materials and move finished product

Who You Are:

Comfortable lifting heavy objects repeatedly

Able to work in hot, cold, damp, or confined spaces

Able to read and communicate in English

A team player who is willing to assist other departments when needed

Able to think critically through complex processes such as tank handling

Open to working first, second, or overnight shifts as needed

Bonus Points If You:

Have experience in the food, beverage, or manufacturing industry

Have a mechanical background

Don’t Meet Every Requirement?

We know there’s no such thing as a perfect candidate. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply with a one-page cover letter explaining why this opportunity speaks to you. Skip the “To Whom It May Concern” and tell us straight—why you?

What We Offer:

16 PTO days in your first year

Paid holidays

Paid sick days

Paid bereavement leave

Paid parental leave

401(k) with company match

Health & dental insurance from day one

Company-provided short-term disability coverage

Annual PPE stipend

Cider allowance (how big is your fridge?)

All offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background check, conducted after a conditional job offer has been made. Candidates will have the opportunity to review and respond to any findings.

About Downeast Cider

We aspire to build an enduring company with a world-class brand, known as an extraordinary place to work. It’s been 12 years since our first batches of unfiltered cider were fermented in the dorms of Bates College, Maine. Since then, we’ve gained 231 new teammates, crafted 1.6 million cases of tasty drinks (with a growing assortment beyond cider), and remained 100% founder-owned. We’re a scrappy team that enjoys the hard work of building something special because we get to work on fun projects with great people.

At Downeast Cider, we hire the way we like our cider—unfiltered. We believe that diverse perspectives make us stronger, and we welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities.

Salary : $3 - $20