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Tray Former Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

fgf brands

Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Palletizer, Depositor, Oven Operator, Schubert, Icing, Arpac, Metal Detector, Tray/Box Former, and Label Operator. They are responsible for operating their equipment as per their training as well as ...

fgf brands

Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Palletizer, Depositor, Oven Operator, Schubert, Icing, Arpac, Metal Detector, Tray/Box Former, and Label Operator. They are responsible for operating their equipment as per their training as well as ...

fgf brands

Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Palletizer, Depositor, Oven Operator, Schubert, Icing, Arpac, Metal Detector, Tray/Box Former, and Label Operator. They are responsible for operating their equipment as per their training as well as ...

FGF Brands USA

Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Palletizer, Depositor, Oven Operator, Schubert, Icing, Arpac, Metal Detector, Tray/Box Former, and Label Operator. They are responsible for operating their equipment as per their training as well as ...

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Tray Former information

What is a tray former?

Tray formers are machines or workers responsible for assembling cardboard or corrugated trays used for packaging and shipping products. In a manufacturing or warehouse setting, a tray former typically operates automated equipment that forms flat sheets of material into sturdy trays, which are then used to hold and transport goods. This role is crucial for ensuring that products are securely packed and ready for distribution, often supporting production lines in food, beverage, or retail industries. Tray formers must pay attention to machine operation, quality control, and sometimes basic maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tray former?

To thrive as a Tray Former, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of packaging processes, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tray forming machines, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills help you work efficiently and maintain production standards. These skills ensure consistent product quality, operational safety, and optimal workflow in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by tray formers in a manufacturing environment, and how can they be overcome?

Tray Formers often encounter challenges such as maintaining machine efficiency, quickly troubleshooting mechanical issues, and ensuring consistent product quality under tight production deadlines. Adapting to different tray sizes and keeping up with routine maintenance schedules can also be demanding. These challenges can be managed by developing strong mechanical aptitude, staying organized with maintenance tasks, and actively communicating with team members and supervisors to promptly address issues and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Tray Former vs Cartoner?

AspectTray FormerCartoner
Primary FunctionForms trays from flat sheets or blanks for packagingAssembles and fills cartons for product packaging
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or packaging plantsPackaging lines in factories
Required SkillsMechanical skills, attention to detailMechanical skills, quality control
Common CertificationsNone specific, machinery operationMachine operation certifications often preferred

Tray formers and cartoners are both essential in packaging lines but serve different functions. Tray formers create trays for holding products, while cartoners assemble and fill cartons. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right role for your skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Tray Former jobs in Tennessee?

For Tray Former jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tray Former jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Tray Former jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Tray Former jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Tray Former job openings:

Tray Former jobs near you

Tray Former Apprentice - Clamshell - Day Shift (3 Day/12 Hour)

SOUTHERN CHAMPION TRAY LLC

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Southern Champion Tray rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

All jobs at Southern Champion Tray (SCT) require Team members to act in accordance with the shared Core Values and Operating principles of the company as they perform specific job functions. These include:

  • Trustworthy – We strive for our actions to match our words in all our relationships.
  • Servant – Hearted – We enable and empower our team to serve the needs of customers, Team members, suppliers and the community.
  • Relational – We aim to build healthy relationships while fostering and environment that promotes compassion, balance, and personal and professional growth.
  • Resourceful – We value strategic insourcing, first looking to create solutions internally, and then looking to apply that knowledge to future opportunities.
SUMMARY

The Clamshell Operator Apprentice is an entry-level production role responsible for learning the safe operation, setup support, packing, feeding, and quality inspection processes for clamshell hot melt equipment. This role builds foundational knowledge of machine safety, product quality standards, material handling, and basic machine functions while supporting Operators and Leads in daily production activities.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Learns and follows all machine safety procedures, including proper use of cut gloves, identification of nip points, safety guards, E-stops, safety chains, and hot melt system safety
  • Follows all safety related policies, rules, regulations, technical instructions, and guidelines at all times. Uses situational awareness and identify unsafe behaviors and conditions.
  • Follows all instructions issued on the work jacket and advises supervisor of any incorrect or non-recorded information that is necessary for proper set-up and operation
  • Follows all checklist procedures fully, stores all parts in their proper place, and recommends replacement or repair of worn parts by alerting lead, supervisor or maintenance
  • Learns to set up machine in a consistent manner as instructed in the training program, follows the procedures with regard to proper set up unless the training is changed and properly recorded with regard to procedure
  • Assists with setup activities including corrugated preparation, sticker placement, glue tank refills, salvage handling, recycling waste, and use of the down-stroke baler 
  • Learns to make machine adjustments in order to maintain machine at safety, quality, and production standards
  • Learns feeding operations including shaking product, bending blanks when needed, filling the feed system, storing tie sheets, and calling stock pullers 
  • Supports packing operations by identifying good and bad trays, performing tape machine setup, completing line clearance procedures, and maintaining clean work areas 
  • Responsible for the quality of the product, packaging, labeling, and stocking 
  • Completes 20-minute sample checks and documents results using required computer procedures (i.e., print accuracy and quality, cuts, scores, glue application, folds, tray appearance) 
  • Uses computer system to log productivity and remarks on job, accurately completes production report and record production data and downtime
  • Analyzes and corrects production problems, using all of the enhanced tools available contacting the supervisor for assistance when necessary
  • Documents and reporta all non-conforming product to supervisor or lead or quality person
  • Responsible for all equipment, tools assigned, and notifies the supervisor of any additional tools or equipment that would add to the efficiency and safety of the operation
  • Learns sample storage procedures and use of pressure check systems such as ChampPaks 
  • Utilizes CoCo or Radius system for job lookup, login, item selection, and schedule review 
  • Learns how to read and understand job tickets including BPU, RPM, case count, stacking configuration, special instructions, and board caliper 
  • Learns machine start, jog, reverse jog, stop, and reset functions on TFC-7 and TFC-8 equipment 
  • Develops basic PLC knowledge including screen navigation, vacuum control, lane setup, speed changes, feed air functions, UV controls, and purge/test functions 
  • Learns basic glue bonding adjustments including glue gun adjustments, compression rollers, and compression cages
  • Learns to troubleshoot, diagnose, and assists in repair of machine malfunctions; performs routine cleaning, and maintenance
  • Communicates well with other team members 
  • Wears appropriate PPE for the task and the area.
  • Welcomes updates and improvements to processes and follow new procedures and innovations, which would add to the efficiency and safety of the operation
  • Performs work in a manner that keeps down time to a minimum
  • Keeps all necessary supplies available 
  • Maintains a clean work environment in accordance with Food Safety and 5S systems
  • May be asked to help with duties in other areas or departments


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no direct supervisory responsibilities.


DEVELOPMENT INDICATORS

  • Consistently follows all safety procedures without reminders 
  • Correctly identifies quality defects and escalates concerns promptly 
  • Demonstrates understanding of machine startup, stop, and jog functions 
  • Completes packing and feeder support tasks with minimal supervision 
  • Accurately performs sample checks and documentation requirements 
  • Shows increased confidence using CoCo or Radius, job tickets, and PLC basic functions 
  • Maintains clean, organized work areas and supports line efficiency 
  • Demonstrates readiness to progress into independent machine setup support
QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) preferred 
  • One (1) to three (3) months’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Basic computer skills and possess ability to utilize software
  • Must have mechanical ability and skills
  • Manufacturing or packaging experience preferred but not required 
  • Ability to work safely in a fast-paced production environment 
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn 


OTHER REQUIREMENTS  

  • Eighteen (18) years of age or older 
  • Successful completion of pre-employment drug screen, physical and background check 
  • Dependability 


SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

  • Self-motivated with ability to work under close supervision 
  • Ability to work satisfactorily as a Team Member and communicate with all levels within the company 
  • Ability to set, adjust and change daily priorities 
  • Ability to handle sudden changes in project/priority and multiple tasks simultaneously in a positive fashion 
  • Ability to manage conflict and resolve issues in the most positive fashion for all parties concerned 

 

LANGUAGE SKILLS 

  • Ability to read and understand documents, letters, etc. and write legibly in English. 
  • Ability to understand and speak clearly, communicate, and understand directions in English as needed.

Day Shift (3 Day/12 Hour) - 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM EST - Blue Team
Amnicola Plant - 2601 Riverport Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37406

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