Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Juice Filler

🎯 Role Definition

The Juice Filler is a cornerstone of our production team, responsible for the precise and efficient operation of automated filling equipment. This role is crucial for transforming raw juice into a finished, packaged product ready for consumers. As a Juice Filler, you are the frontline guardian of product quality, safety, and integrity, ensuring that every bottle meets our stringent standards for fill level, capping, and labeling. This position requires a keen eye for detail and a hands-on approach to operate, monitor, and maintain the machinery that keeps our production lines flowing smoothly. You will work within a dynamic, fast-paced environment, collaborating closely with other production team members, quality assurance technicians, and maintenance staff to achieve daily production targets and uphold our commitment to excellence.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Production Worker
Warehouse Associate
Packaging Assistant

Advancement To:

Senior Machine Operator / Filling Line Lead
Production Supervisor
Quality Control Technician

Lateral Moves:

Bottling Machine Operator
Packaging Operator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Skillfully operate, monitor, and adjust high-speed automated juice filling and capping machinery to meet precise production specifications and output targets.
Conduct meticulous and frequent quality control checks on products at various stages, verifying fill volumes, cap torque, label placement, and code date accuracy.
Execute equipment setup and complex changeovers between different product sizes, recipes, and packaging formats in a timely and efficient manner.
Perform routine preventative maintenance tasks, including lubrication, cleaning, and minor part adjustments, to ensure optimal machine performance and longevity.
Proactively troubleshoot and resolve minor operational issues and machine stoppages to minimize downtime and maintain a continuous production flow.
Maintain a scrupulously clean and organized work environment by adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and master sanitation schedules.
Accurately complete and maintain detailed production records, logs, and quality assurance documentation in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
Strictly adhere to all company safety protocols, food safety standards (HACCP, SQF), and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
Efficiently load bulk materials, such as empty bottles from the de-palletizer, caps into the hopper, and labels into the magazine, to supply the filling line.
Perform comprehensive visual inspections of raw materials before use and finished goods before they are cased, identifying and removing any defective items.
Maintain clear, constant communication with line leads, supervisors, quality assurance personnel, and maintenance teams regarding production status, quality issues, or equipment malfunctions.
Systematically monitor the entire filling process, from bottle rinsing to capping, to ensure all components are synchronized and functioning correctly.
Ensure the correct lot codes, expiration dates, and other essential information are accurately applied to each bottle by the coding equipment.
Manage the flow of bottles along the conveyor system, preventing jams and ensuring a smooth transition between different stages of the packaging line.
Calibrate sensitive measuring equipment and scales to guarantee accurate fill weights and volumes, making adjustments as necessary based on quality checks.

Secondary Functions

Actively participate in continuous improvement projects and Kaizen events aimed at enhancing line efficiency, reducing waste, and improving safety.
Assist in the training and mentoring of new team members, providing guidance on standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and quality standards.
Support the packaging area by assisting with case packing, palletizing, and stretch-wrapping of finished products during peak production times or staff shortages.
Manage the inventory of operational supplies specific to the filling station, such as cleaning chemicals, machine lubricants, and spare parts, reporting low stock levels to the supervisor.
Collaborate with the sanitation team during scheduled deep cleaning operations, performing disassembly and reassembly of filling equipment components as required.
Immediately report any significant equipment failures, safety hazards, or potential product contamination risks to the appropriate supervisor or maintenance personnel.
Contribute valuable feedback and suggestions during team meetings to help refine production processes, improve workflow, and address operational challenges.
Ensure proper segregation and disposal of waste materials, including recyclables and non-conforming products, following established environmental and company policies.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Filling Machine Operation: Proven ability to operate, set up, and perform changeovers on automated liquid filling, capping, and labeling equipment.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): In-depth knowledge of and adherence to cGMP standards within a food and beverage or pharmaceutical environment.
Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Competency in using basic hand tools to perform minor adjustments, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance on machinery.
Quality Control Procedures: Experience with conducting in-process quality checks, using measurement tools (calipers, scales), and understanding product specifications.
Food Safety Knowledge (HACCP/SQF): Understanding of food safety principles and critical control points to prevent product contamination.
Documentation & Record Keeping: Ability to accurately and legibly complete production logs, quality forms, and batch records.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures: Trained and proficient in following safety protocols for de-energizing machinery during maintenance and cleaning.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all tasks, from monitoring fill levels to completing paperwork, to ensure product quality and safety.
Problem-Solving: Ability to quickly identify the root cause of machine stoppages or quality deviations and implement effective solutions.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Works effectively with colleagues across different departments (Production, QA, Maintenance) to achieve common goals.
Reliability & Strong Work Ethic: Demonstrates excellent attendance, punctuality, and a commitment to performing duties to the best of their ability.
Communication Skills: Clearly and concisely communicates information, issues, and updates to supervisors and team members.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational school certificate or an Associate's degree in a technical field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Manufacturing Technology
Industrial Maintenance

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience as a machine operator in a manufacturing setting.

Preferred: Direct experience operating filling and packaging machinery within the food, beverage, or dairy industry under GMP and HACCP/SQF regulations.