Production Operator

Paper Dimensions in Beaver Dam is growing and looking for reliable, hands-on team members to help us keep production running strong.

Position Summary

The Production Operator is responsible for safely operating manufacturing equipment, supporting production processes, maintaining product quality, and ensuring efficient daily production execution within the manufacturing environment.

Operating within the EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) framework, this role is accountable for producing quality products safely and efficiently while supporting operational goals, food safety standards, workplace safety expectations, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Production Operator plays a key role in daily manufacturing operations by operating equipment, monitoring production processes, maintaining accurate documentation, supporting operational workflow, and contributing to overall team success.

This role also supports the company's SQF-certified manufacturing environment by adhering to food safety requirements, GMP expectations, sanitation procedures, operational controls, traceability requirements, and workplace safety standards across all production activities.

EOS Role Alignment

Primary Accountability

• Safely operate manufacturing equipment and production machinery
• Support daily production goals and operational efficiency
• Maintain product quality and operational consistency
• Follow food safety, GMP, and safety requirements
• Complete production and operational documentation accurately
• Support teamwork, communication, and continuous improvement
• Maintain clean, organized, and compliant work areas

Core Responsibilities

Production Operations

• Set up, operate, monitor, and adjust manufacturing equipment according to operational procedures and production requirements
• Produce finished products according to customer specifications, quality standards, and production schedules
• Monitor machine performance and production output to maintain operational efficiency and product quality
• Perform product inspections and quality checks throughout production runs
• Identify operational issues, machine concerns, material problems, or quality deviations and report them appropriately
• Support machine changeovers, production setup activities, and operational adjustments as needed
• Assist with troubleshooting equipment and operational problems within assigned responsibilities
• Support production flow and operational priorities throughout the shift

Quality & Documentation

• Inspect finished products and in-process materials to ensure compliance with company and customer specifications
• Complete production paperwork, quality checks, operational records, and traceability documentation accurately
• Maintain operational records according to company procedures and SQF requirements
• Communicate production issues, quality concerns, or operational deviations to leadership promptly
• Support operational consistency and product quality throughout production activities

SQF, Food Safety & GMP Compliance

• Support and follow the company's SQF-certified food safety system
• Follow all GMP requirements, sanitation procedures, operational controls, and food safety expectations
• Maintain cleanliness and organization within assigned production areas
• Support traceability requirements, material identification, and operational documentation procedures
• Report food safety concerns, contamination risks, product defects, or operational non-conformances immediately
• Participate in food safety training, operational audits, corrective actions, and continuous improvement activities
• Support operational discipline and audit readiness throughout production activities

Safety & Workplace Compliance

• Follow all OSHA standards, company safety procedures, PPE requirements, and operational safety expectations
• Operate machinery, tools, and material handling equipment safely and responsibly
• Maintain awareness of machine guarding, lockout/tagout procedures, forklift traffic, and workplace hazards
• Report unsafe conditions, incidents, injuries, or operational hazards immediately
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas at all times
• Support company safety initiatives and operational discipline throughout the facility

Teamwork & Operational Support

• Work collaboratively with leads, operators, maintenance personnel, shipping personnel, and leadership teams
• Support production goals, workflow coordination, and operational priorities
• Maintain professionalism, communication, and accountability throughout daily operations
• Assist with training, cross-training, and operational support activities as needed
• Support organizational teamwork and operational consistency

Continuous Improvement

• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to production efficiency, quality, workflow, and safety
• Identify opportunities to improve operational performance and reduce waste or downtime
• Participate in problem-solving and process improvement activities
• Support operational consistency and standardized work practices
• Maintain a positive attitude toward learning, improvement, and accountability

Core Values & Expectations

Own the Outcome

• Takes ownership of product quality, operational performance, and workplace responsibilities
• Follows procedures and completes assigned work accurately and safely
• Addresses issues proactively and communicates concerns appropriately
• Maintains accountability for attendance, performance, and operational execution
• Supports operational consistency and teamwork

Qualifications

Preferred Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Previous manufacturing, converting, packaging, or machine operation experience preferred
• Experience operating machinery within a manufacturing environment preferred
• Experience within food-contact, packaging, converting, or SQF-certified environments preferred
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills preferred
• Strong attention to detail and quality awareness
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment
• Willingness to work flexible schedules and overtime as needed

Knowledge & Skills

• Manufacturing equipment operation
• Quality inspection and operational awareness
• Production documentation and recordkeeping
• Food safety, GMP, and sanitation awareness
• OSHA and workplace safety awareness
• Communication and teamwork
• Problem-solving and operational accountability
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Organizational and time management skills