ILLES Foods Job Description 

Job Title: Liquid Machine Operator 

Reports To: Liquid Production Supervisor  

FLSA: Permanent, Full Time, Non-Exempt, 

About Us:   
Specializing in custom-crafted culinary solutions—from beverage bases and sauces to marinades and seasonings—ILLES Foods has partnered with food service chains, manufacturers, and retailers across the U.S. since 1927. Our Food Innovation expertise, creativity, and speed to market, combined with a laser focus on customer experience, make us a key partner in product development.  As a family-owned, woman-run business, our growth is fueled by deeply held values: operating with integrity, maintaining intentional curiosity, and strong relationship building through the power of partnership. At ILLES Foods, we strive to be the ingredient that elevates food and enriches the lives of our partners, internal and external. 

Job Summary: 
The Successful candidate is responsible for set-up and operation of at least 2 filling/packaging machines used in production, in accordance with process and quality standards to meet production schedules assigned. They will perform production activities and operate production equipment in accordance with BRC requirements, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s), as well as all Illes SOP’s, Safety and Quality standards and time sequences. Partner conducts themselves in a manner that is aligned with Illes Foods Core Values: Operate with Integrity, Stay Intentionally Curious, and Believe in the Power of the Partnership 

Key Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Verify bulk materials, packaging components, and labels against batch sheet 

• Load correct label files, input variable data, and get FSQA label approval 

• Set up and operate up to two packaging machines per standard settings 

• Perform job changeovers and monitor production for safety and efficiency 

• Inspect materials and products for seal integrity, print quality, and weight 

• Conduct seal leak tests and collect samples for QA 

• Operate HMI systems; adjust machines and maintain SPC charts 

• Load materials, fill packages accurately, and stack finished goods on pallets 

• Maintain equipment cleanliness and follow safety/health standards 

• Accurately record production data in RiteTime and Ross 

• Operate or learn to operate filling machines and forklifts 

• Follow GMP, food safety, and quality standards at all times 

• Maintain professional verbal and written communication 

• Regular attendance required; perform other tasks as assigned 

Required Key Skills and Qualifications: 

• Time management & reliability: Consistently meets production schedules; completes setups, changeovers, and documentation on time; maintains reliable attendance 

• Safety & compliance: Follows BRC, GMP, SOP, food safety, and quality standards; maintains clean equipment and safe work practices at all times 

• Communication (verbal/written): Communicates clearly with FSQA, supervisors, and team members; records accurate production data in RiteTime and Ross. 

• Customer service (active listening): Listens attentively to instructions, feedback, and quality requirements; ensures packaging meets customer and quality expectations. 

• Inventory management Verifies bulk materials, packaging components, and labels; loads correct materials and minimizes waste through accurate handling. 

• Flexibility/adaptability: Adjusts to job changeovers, machine assignments, and shifting production needs; learns additional equipment as required. 

• Digital literacy: Operates HMI systems; inputs variable data, maintains SPC charts, and documents production accurately in digital systems. 

• Problem-solving (critical thinking): Troubleshoots machine and process issues; evaluates options and takes corrective action to maintain efficiency and quality. 

• Team coordination: Works in sync with production, QA, and support teams; supports smooth handoffs and continuous line operation 

• Conflict resolution: Addresses minor operational or workflow issues professionally to maintain team alignment and uninterrupted production. 

Experience & Education: 
High School or Equivalent or the ability to obtain same within specified time. 0-2 years Food Industry Experience plus a minimum of 6 months Packaging Equipment experience required. 

Working Conditions & Physical Demands: 

• Lifting: Ability to continuously lift weights up to 55 lbs. vertically. 

• Carrying: Ability to continuously carry up to 55 lbs. to distances up to 70 in. 

• Push-Pull: Able to transfer up to 100 lbs. on a sled up to distances of 45 ft (no repetitions.  

• Repetitive Coupling: Ability to continuously squeeze Jamer hand Dynamometer requiring forces up to 10 lbs. 

• Climbing: Ability to continuously ascend and descend a step with a height of 8 in. 

• Temperatures: Varies from 55 to 110 degrees 

What We Offer: 
We are a core-value driven, inclusive team that values innovation, growth, and impact. We offer career development, mentorship, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits—including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with immediate match, HSA, EAP, life, disability, and more!  

Disclaimer: 
The job description provides a general overview of the work, not a detailed list of all tasks and skills. Reasonable accommodation is available for individuals with disabilities as required by law. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a health or safety risk. Employees must follow job-related instructions and perform additional duties as per federal and state laws. The listed requirements are the minimum needed to perform the job effectively. Employment is "at-will," meaning it can be terminated at any time. ILLES Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (M/F/D/V)