Machine Operator - 1st Shift Acorn

Job Title: Machine Operator 
Department: Acorn Operations 
Reports To: Acorn Maintenance Manager 
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
Location: Acorn Plant 
Work Arrangement: On-Site 
Shift / Schedule: Full-time 
Travel Requirements: N/A 
Employment Type: Full-time 

Role Overview / Purpose and Scope 

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining assigned production equipment at Farmer Focus’s Acorn packing plant. This role supports safe, efficient, and high-quality production by maintaining strong quality, productivity, and equipment standards while following all safety programs, food safety requirements, and company procedures. 

The Machine Operator plays an important role in supporting packing plant operations by identifying mechanical concerns, communicating equipment issues, completing assigned tasks accurately and efficiently, and helping ensure production equipment runs safely and effectively. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Operate, monitor, and maintain assigned machinery and equipment in the Acorn packing plant. 

• Maintain superior quality, productivity, and equipment standards for assigned areas and equipment. 

• Follow all safety programs, procedures, and company requirements. 

• Maintain and test mechanical equipment, machinery, and components. 

• Identify parts, equipment, or machines that need new or replacement parts. 

• Respond to production area requests when mechanical or equipment issues have been identified. 

• Communicate with production management and production team members to diagnose equipment issues and determine potential mechanical problems. 

• Perform preventive maintenance on assigned equipment as required. 

• Complete assigned tasks accurately and efficiently, using time and resources effectively. 

• Read and follow lockout/tagout and confined space entry procedures as required. 

• Read and interpret documents, instructions, and drawings related to the role. 

• Support equipment reliability, production flow, and safe plant operations. 

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Compensation 

Compensation Range: $19.50 

The posted compensation range for this role should reflect the minimum and maximum amount Farmer Focus in good faith expects to pay at the time of posting, based on factors such as internal equity, relevant experience, market data, and the budgeted amount available for the position.  

Benefits: Farmer Focus offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support team members’ health, financial well-being, and professional growth. Available offerings may include weekly payroll, paid time off and sick leave, semi-subsidized medical coverage, dental and vision plan options, a 401(k) plan with company match, HSA and FSA, education reimbursement opportunities, employee assistance programs (EAP), and internal learning, development, and career growth programs. 

All benefits, programs, and offerings are subject to eligibility requirements, plan terms, and company policies, and may be changed, amended, or discontinued by Farmer Focus at any time. 

Qualifications 

• General mathematical ability required to perform the job. 

• Ability to read, write, and speak English. 

• Ability to read and write well enough to safely use lockout/tagout and confined space entry programs. 

• Ability to read and interpret documents, instructions, and drawings. 

• Basic knowledge of standard and metric measurements. 

• Ability to identify mechanical issues and communicate concerns to production management and team members. 

• Ability to complete tasks accurately and efficiently. 

• Ability to work assigned days and shifts, including some weekends. 

• Ability to follow safety procedures, production standards, and company policies. 

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the role with or without reasonable accommodation. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience operating machinery or production equipment in a manufacturing, food processing, poultry processing, packing, or production environment. 

• Experience performing basic preventive maintenance. 

• Basic mechanical aptitude or experience identifying equipment issues. 

• Familiarity with lockout/tagout procedures, confined space entry procedures, or production safety programs. 

• Willingness to work within the framework of the Farmer Focus CARES values: Community, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, and Stewardship. 

New team members must be able to pass a drug, alcohol and background screening post-offer and prior to the start of their employment. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that verification of employment eligibility be documented for all new employees by the end of their third day of work. 

Work Environment, Physical Demands, and Travel