Machine Helper Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Who we are

At Aptar, we use insights, design, engineering and science to create innovative packaging technologies that build brand value for our customers, and, in turn, make a meaningful difference in the lives, looks, health and homes of people around the world.

Every day, Aptar creates "a-ha moments" for its customers and their consumers and patients by continually bringing innovations to market that convert non-dispensing packaging into breakthrough product-dispensing systems, including those that give people more effective ways to put on their favorite fragrance, kids the opportunity to pour ketchup without making a mess and patients connected technologies that help them more easily adhere to treatment.

We have manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, Asia and South America and over 13,000 dedicated employees in some 20 countries.

You should work here because we:

• Attract and develop high performing people.
• Promote a diverse and inclusive work environment.
• Allow for failure by allowing people to make mistakes through an open and trusting environment.
• Invest in the development of employees through local, regional and global career opportunities.
• Contribute to the communities where we reside.

What's new with Aptar

Our fast-growing, technologically-driven manufacturing company is seeking Machine Operators to work 12-hour shifts on a 2-2-3 schedule rotation. 

Primary Purpose Summary

Level 1 Machine Operator
The Level 1 Machine Operator is an entry-level role focused on developing the skills required to manage material flow, monitor equipment operations, make necessary adjustments, and ensure product quality and equipment conditions meet specifications. This position also involves maintaining housekeeping standards, adhering to safety protocols, and contributing suggestions to improve equipment performance and safety. Compliance with all relevant plant certifications, such as ISO 9001:2000, SQF, and BRC standards, is a key requirement of this role.

Shift Schedule
This role operates on 12-hour shifts, either:

• Night Shift: 6:45 PM to 7:00 AM on a 2-2-3 rotation
• Day Shift: 6:45 AM to 7:00 PM on a 2-2-3 rotation

This is how your journey begins:

Detailed Description:

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Adhere to all system procedures and company policies.
• Arrive 15 minutes before the start of the shift to ensure effective communication with the outgoing team.
• Arrange and set up materials, handling equipment, and machinery.
• Monitor machine operations to ensure finished products meet quality and quantity standards.
• Identify and discard defective goods and packaging components.
• Replenish, stock, and organize packaging supplies.
• Keep machinery clean throughout shift to maintain optimal functionality.
• Maintain daily reports on goods produced.
• Review activity boards for scheduled color changes, conversions, and setups.
• Create, label, and number boxes; prepare move tickets.
• Verify that box labels match product specifications based on shop orders.
• Interpret and apply visual inspection criteria, mold maps, and supplemental product information.
• Package and label test product samples for tagging.
• Conduct visual inspections, including color matching, in accordance with inspection plans.
• Respond to alarms, check for stuck parts, and utilize the Process Monitor on presses.
• Operate emergency stops on closing machines, grinders, and auxiliary equipment; follow lockout/tagout procedures as needed.
• Provide machine operation relief during breaks.
• Perform inspection duties as needed in the absence of Cell Leads.
• Execute other related responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, count, and write proficiently.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience in machine operation within a manufacturing setting.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for 12-hour shifts.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and effective communication.
• Team-oriented mindset and self-direction.
• Proficiency in computer data entry and editing, with the ability to learn and use departmental software.
• Ability to distinguish colors.

Preferred:

• 2+ years of operator and/or technical experience in a manufacturing facility.
• Knowledge of packaging applications.
• Familiarity with the food and beverage industry.

•  Skills/Abilities

• Strong knowledge of packaging processes.
• Eagerness to learn and achieve core competency within the first 90 days.

What we offer:

• An exciting, diverse and value based working environment
• Award-winning corporate university offering personal development and training opportunities.
• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus plan.
• Contribute to the communities where we reside.
• Innovative benefits plan which includes: 401k & Retirement Savings plan, vacation, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, pet insurance, wellness plan, and generous paid maternity/paternity leave].

Be You. Be Aptar

Aptar is an equal opportunities employer. We believe that a diverse workforce is key to our success. We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief.