Senior Automation Line Operator (Food Manufacturing)

Senior Automation Line Operator (Food Manufacturing)

Why Dr. Praeger’s? Since 1994, our family-founded company—started by two heart surgeons—has focused on delicious frozen foods made with simple ingredients. Explore our history: .

What You’ll Do

• Set up, operate, and change over automated packaging and processing lines, including Syntegon TTM’s and Elematics.
• Troubleshoot and complete minor mechanical fixes—swap belts, sensors, and other consumables.
• Conduct quick checks on running equipment to spot early failure indicators.
• Coordinate with mechanics for complex repairs; escalate issues promptly to reduce downtime.
• Lead on-floor communications as the senior contact for operators during production.
• Train and mentor new team members in safety, quality, and efficient line operation.
• Partner with service technicians and contractors during installations and troubleshooting.
• Maintain accurate production and maintenance records in Redzone; log safety, quality, and maintenance events.

What This Role Is (and Isn’t)

• Is: A bridge between operations and maintenance focused on uptime and first-response fixes.
• Isn’t: Responsible for deep repairs or planned maintenance—those are handled by mechanics. You assist by preparing equipment and sharing clear diagnostics.

What You Bring

• 2+ years’ machine operation experience; background in food manufacturing or packaging preferred.
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude; skilled with basic hand tools and fault identification.
• Read/write English; bilingual (English/Spanish) required.
• Strong communicator and collaborative teammate.
• High attention to detail; able to juggle priorities in a fast pace.
• Solid basic math; comfortable with SOPs and digital reporting tools.

Physical Demands

• Lift/carry at least 50 lbs.
• Stand/walk for long periods; frequent push, pull, bend, reach.
• Work in cold zones (56–59°F) and handle frozen product (approx. 4°F).
• Require good color, depth, and peripheral vision with strong manual dexterity.

Food Safety & Quality

• Operate equipment to meet quality and safety targets.
• Comply with SSOPs, GMPs, and all plant food safety policies.
• Maintain sanitation and organization at the workstation.
• Report safety/quality concerns immediately to leadership.

Compliance

**Disclaimer:

**Employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodation will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

*Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment.