Water Jet Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Join our fast‑paced team helping bring fresh, high‑quality fruits and vegetables to customers every day!

We are a growing, mid‑sized food production and processing company looking for reliable, motivated individuals to support our growing operations. If you enjoy hands‑on work, take pride in quality, and don’t mind a cold work environment, we’d love to hear from you!

• Machine Operation: Operate production, processing, and packaging equipment according to established procedures. Start up, shut down, monitor, and adjust machinery to maintain efficient production flow. Perform equipment changeovers and adjustments as required for different products or production runs. Monitor equipment performance and product quality throughout the shift. Ensure production targets, line speeds, and quality standards are achieved.
• Equipment Monitoring & Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve minor equipment issues to minimize downtime. Monitor machine settings and make adjustments to maintain product specifications. Report equipment malfunctions, repairs, or maintenance needs promptly. Assist Maintenance Technicians during repairs and troubleshooting activities.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow all company safety policies and machine operating procedures. Utilize required PPE and machine guarding at all times. Maintain a clean and organized work area. Participate in safety meetings and required training programs.
• Teamwork & Communication: Work collaboratively with Production, QA, Sanitation, Warehouse, and Maintenance teams. Assist with training new operators when assigned. Support production goals and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.
Work Environment:
• Work performed in a cold (3438°F), wet, and fast‑paced production environment.
• Continuous interaction with conveyors, processing machinery, and packaging equipment.
• Exposure to noise, vibration, and changing production demands.
• Frequent exposure to water, fresh produce, and production equipment.
• Regular presence on production floor with continuous employee interaction.
• Required to follow all PPE guidelines, including hairnets, gloves, aprons, sleeves, and safety footwear.
• Closed‑toe, slip‑resistant footwear is required at all times.
• Exposure to noise, moving machinery, and variable temperatures.
What We’re Looking For:

Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of food production, manufacturing, or related environment experience preferred but not required.

Skills:
• Ability to operate machinery safely and efficiently.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and quality standards.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Experience operating packaging, conveying, cutting, washing, sorting, or processing equipment.
• Forklift or pallet jack experience preferred.
• Experience with production reporting systems and equipment controls.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, food safety, and production processes.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.
• Ability to work in cold, wet environment for extended periods.
• Strong observation, communication, and documentation skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong commitment to food safety and regulatory compliance.
• Problem‑solving and analytical thinking.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (812 hour shifts).
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and walking production lines.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to operate equipment controls and perform repetitive hand movements.
• Ability to work in cold, wet, and noisy environments for extended periods.
• Ability to climb stairs, platforms, or ladders to access equipment as needed.
• Visual ability to monitor machine operation, inspect products, and read gauges and production documents.
• Ability to wear required PPE for extended periods.
• Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.