Meat Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Us:

Carl Buddig and Company, a respected name in the meat manufacturing industry, boasts a legacy of over 80 years. Founded as a family-owned company, we have evolved into a leading producer of premium meat products, including renowned lunchmeats, ready-to-eat cooked meats under our Kingsford, LLC division, and savory snack meats from Old Wisconsin.

As a third-generation family business, our success is anchored in our commitment to quality, innovation, and community. With a workforce of 2,500 dedicated team members spread across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, we continue to expand, driven by a vision for excellence and a responsiveness to evolving consumer preferences.

At Carl Buddig and Company, we foster a culture centered around teamwork and innovation. We strive to create an environment that values creativity and collaboration, ensuring every team member is empowered to contribute to our collective goals.

Our dedication extends beyond our business operations. We actively support charitable initiatives and community organizations through direct contributions, volunteer work, and partnerships. We aim to make a positive impact and give back to the communities that have supported us over the years.

Join us at Carl Buddig and Company, where tradition meets innovation, and where our passion for quality meat products is matched by our commitment to our people and communities.

Position Summary:

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe operation of machines in the Ready-to-Eat (RTE) department/Seasoning department. In addition, employees are responsible for producing a safe and quality food product per USDA guidelines. They are required to report all food safety-related problems to their supervisor, manager, or the quality assurance department.

Seasoning Machine Operator Key Responsibilities:

•    Safely operate the injector and tumbler to meet production expectations.
•    Properly weigh ingredients for addition to the product
•    Assist with the direction of employees working on the line.
•    Properly set up the machine to operate safely, while meeting production expectations.
•    Properly clean the machine at the end of the shift.
•    Assist with paperwork as needed.
•    Perform safety inspections (guards, e-stop, etc.) daily.
•    Properly correct errors with the equipment (film jams, error codes, etc.) following all the required safety procedures.
•    Possess knowledge of and familiarity with the job responsibilities and requirements.
•    Must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s).
•    Troubleshoot minor equipment malfunctions or jams to minimize downtime and maintain steady production flow.
•    Decide when to stop the machine or notify maintenance if equipment performance, product quality, or safety is compromised.
•    Adjust machine settings (e.g., speed, temperature, feed rate) within approved parameters to maintain product consistency and quality.
•    Identify and communicate recurring mechanical or process issues to supervisors to support long-term improvements. 
•    Other responsibilities as assigned.
RTE Machine Operator Key Responsibilities:

•    Properly set up the machine to operate safely while meeting production expectations.
•    Set up and change packaging line equipment specifications on an as needed basis.
•    Assist with the direction of employees working on the line.
•    Maintain line in a clean and sanitary manner at all times.
•    Complete all paperwork and mandatory production checks on time and accurately.
•    Perform safety inspections (guards, e-stop, etc.) daily.
•    Properly correct errors with the equipment (film jams, error codes, etc.) following all the required safety procedures.
•    Willingness and ability to lead and train a team of employees.
•    Discuss employees that are not meeting performance metrics with the Packaging Supervisor.
•    Possess knowledge of and familiarity with the job responsibilities and requirements.
•    Must be highly attentive to detail (i.e. meat type/film/date).
•    Must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s).
•    Troubleshoot minor equipment malfunctions or jams to minimize downtime and maintain steady production flow.
•    Decide when to stop the machine or notify maintenance if equipment performance, product quality, or safety is compromised.
•    Adjust machine settings (e.g., speed, temperature, feed rate) within approved parameters to maintain product consistency and quality.
•    Identify and communicate recurring mechanical or process issues to supervisors to support long-term improvements.
•    Other responsibilities as assigned.
 

Education & Experience:

•    Must be 18 years of age.
•    Ability to legally work in the United States.
•    High School Diploma/GED is preferred.
•    1-2 years related work experience is preferred.
•    Knowledge of GMP and USDA regulations preferred.
•    Must be able to read, write and speak English.
•    Must have mechanical abilities.
 

Working Conditions:

•    Must be able to work in temperatures below 40 degrees. 
•    Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
•    Able to push and pull items in excess of 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
•    Able to grip and grasp small objects repeatedly.
•    Able to work in a cold, damp environment.
•    Able to stand 8-10 hours per day.
•    Able to bend, twist, and stoop on an occasional basis.
•    Must have good hand and eye coordination.
•    Must have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
•    Must be able to work a minimum of 40 or more hours per week (Overtime if necessary). 
•    Must be flexible and able to work as needed, first or second shift.
 

Benefits for this role include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Training and Development, Vacation & PTO, Referral Bonus Program, and Tuition Reimbursement. 

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions Statement 

Carl Buddig and Company does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to make any employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, promotion, performance evaluations, discipline, or termination. All employment decisions are made by trained HR professionals and company leaders to ensure fairness, consistency, and compliance with the Illinois Human Rights Act.