Assembly Line Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meals on Wheels People is an organization founded in and by the community! Over the past 50 years, our non-profit has helped thousands of older adults in the Portland Metro area keep their independence through weekly meal delivery and social connections. Our culture reflects our five values: integrity, commitment, respect, inclusion, creativity, and TEAMWORK. With over 20 meal delivery centers throughout Multnomah, Washington, and Clark counties, our staff and thousands of volunteers ensure that no adult over 60 goes hungry or experiences social isolation.

Make a meaningful impact while working in a supportive and collaborative environment that values your well-being. Enjoy the benefits of a four-day workweek, ample quality time off, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k)-retirement plan, pet insurance, a wellness program, professional development opportunities, an Employee Assistance Program, and mileage reimbursement.

We are seeking a Food Production Assembly Line Lead who is responsible for overseeing the efficient and effective operation of a high-volume meal assembly line, ensuring adherence to daily production schedules and established standards of food safety, quality, and productivity. This role provides leadership and support to assembly line staff, fosters a culture of teamwork, and drives continuous improvement through training, guidance, and real-time problem-solving. The Lead also monitors production metrics and workflow, proactively identifying and resolving issues to maintain smooth and timely operations.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

• Working as a member of the team, leads a team of assembly line workers, ensuring accuracy, portion control and proper packaging techniques according to production schedules.
• Monitor daily production line, identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies, and implement solutions to enhance productivity.
• Maintain high cleaning and sanitation standards in compliance with food safety standards and operating procedures.
• Monitor product quality and freshness, ensure proper storage and rotation, and address any concerns promptly to maintain high standards.
• Manage inventory of supplies and equipment, ensuring sufficient quantities are on hand to meet the production schedule.
• Conduct inspections and audits to ensure adherence to quality standards and compliance with regulations. Monitor and report any quality issues or discrepancies to management.
• Maintain accurate records of production metrics, including output and quality control.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and reinforce safe work practices among team members.
• Train and onboard staff at various workstations, providing constructive feedback, skill development, and ongoing support.
• Act as a point of contact for resolving operational issues and communicating any delays or downtime that may impact the production schedule.
• Promote a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration, communication, and continuous improvement
• Support broader kitchen operations by cross-training or assisting in other departments as needed.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with team members, staff, and volunteers.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the organization’s mission and daily operations.

Education & Knowledge

• 1–2 years of experience in a food production or assembly line environment.
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper handling procedures.
• Current Oregon Food Handler’s Certificate or ability to obtain within two weeks of hire

Skills, Abilities & Experience

• Demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to coach and support team members in a positive and constructive manner.
• Proficient in the safe and effective use of assembly line tools and equipment.
• Strong understanding of portion control and yield optimization to ensure cost efficiency and product consistency.
• Proficient with email, Microsoft Office and operations-related applications.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills; ability to build rapport and foster collaboration across a diverse team.
• Reliable math and counting skills with strong attention to detail.
• Fluency in English (spoken and written) required.

Any satisfactory combination of experience, training and/or education which ensures the ability to perform the work may substitute for the above qualifications.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Fast paced kitchen environment, with significant people interaction. This position will spend 100% of the time standing with frequent environmental exposures to heat, cold, and water; including exposure to FDA approved chemicals. High frequency of multiple repetitive movements; must be able to transport up to 50 pounds on occasion 20-30 pounds regularly; frequent reaching, bending, stooping and grasping; dexterity in hand and fingers to operate cooking utensils, knives, stove, oven, kitchen equipment, keyboard and mouse.  Candidate must successfully pass the pre-employment screening and criminal background check.

Disclaimer

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.  This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise; employment in this job is an “at will” employment relationship.