Packaging Associate 1st Shift

Job Summary The Packaging Associate reports to the Packaging Supervisor within Crown Bakeries. This position is responsible for performing manual and semi-automated packaging tasks on assigned production lines, ensuring finished bakery products are packaged accurately, safely, and in accordance with established quality, food safety, and GMP standards. The Packaging Associate plays an essential role in the final stages of the production process, contributing directly to product presentation, customer satisfaction, and Crown Bakeries' reputation for quality. All duties are carried out in alignment with Crown Bakeries' Vision, Mission, and Values.

Responsibilities

• Perform manual and semi-automated packaging tasks on assigned packaging lines including placing, folding, inserting, and sealing finished bakery products into designated packaging materials.
• Monitor product flow on the packaging line; ensure products are properly oriented, positioned, and counted prior to packaging; remove and report any visibly defective, damaged, or non-conforming product immediately.
• Verify package weights, counts, and labels against established product specifications at defined intervals; document results accurately and report any out-of-spec conditions to the Packaging Supervisor.
• Assist with packaging line startup, changeover, and shutdown activities; ensure all packaging materials, labels, and supplies are properly staged and ready prior to production starts.
• Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and sanitation of assigned packaging line areas, equipment, and workstations in accordance with GMP, HACCP, and the packaging sanitation schedule.
• Follow all allergen management protocols during product changeovers; complete required allergen changeover documentation accurately and thoroughly.
• Inspect incoming packaging materials (bags, boxes, trays, inserts) for quality and integrity prior to use; report any material defects or shortages to the Packaging Supervisor.
• Apply labels, stickers, date codes, and lot codes to packaging materials accurately and in accordance with established labeling requirements; verify label accuracy against the production schedule.
• Wear and maintain all required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times; comply with all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Communicate proactively with the Packaging Operator, CCP Monitor, and Packaging Supervisor regarding product quality concerns, equipment issues, material shortages, and any conditions that may impact packaging line performance.
• Assist with inventory counts of packaging materials and finished goods as directed by the Packaging Supervisor.
• Support the training of new Packaging Associates on packaging procedures, quality standards, and safety requirements as directed.
• Other duties as assigned by the Packaging Supervisor.

Qualifications And Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 0–2 years of packaging, production, or food manufacturing experience preferred; training provided for motivated candidates.
• Basic understanding of packaging processes, quality inspection, and GMP requirements preferred; training provided.
• Knowledge of food safety standards including GMP, HACCP, FSMA, and Food Defense policies preferred; training provided.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify product quality and packaging defects quickly and accurately.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks at a consistent pace for the duration of an extended shift.
• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced, noisy production and packaging environment.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds; able to stand, bend, twist, push/pull, and reach for the duration of a shift.
• Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, and holidays as production needs require.
• Team-oriented with a strong work ethic and genuine commitment to food safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus for effective communication in a diverse plant environment.

Work Environment This job operates in a production environment. The employee is frequently exposed to facility elements such as noise, dust, fumes and odors. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and filing cabinets.

Eeo Statement Crown Bakeries is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train and promote individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any such discrimination or harassment in our workplace and strive to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce. This EEO policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits and other terms and conditions of employment.