Packaging Machine Technician

Company Description

Jealous Fruits is the northern most large-scale cherry producer in North America. We grow premium cherries along the shores of Okanagan Lake in the renowned Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada. Our cherries are all hand packed in our state-of-the-art facility, located right on our farm, and shipped to our customers worldwide.

Job Purpose

The Packaging Machine Technician ensures the efficient and reliable operation of automated packaging and cardboard-forming equipment. The technician performs setup, calibration, routine and emergency maintenance, and supports production staff in maintaining quality, safety, and production targets.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervision of maintenance, calibration and operation of specialized cardboard forming equipment and the personnel in the department.
• Perform proactive maintenance and emergency service of the cardboard forming equipment.
• Teaching workers best practice techniques and maintaining awareness of quality.
• Coordinating packaging during order and lot changes on the processing line.
• Ensuring any quality or maintenance issues are dealt with in a timely manner.
• Focus on improving and maintaining the efficiency of the equipment in the production house.
• Work closely with the production supervisors and Unitec Operators to ensure the correct cardboard forming machines are operational.
• Work closely with the maintenance and facility manager to ensure the facility and equipment are kept and maintained in good working order.
• Monitoring quality driven processes and attitude with all staff.
• Lead by example in creating a positive and enthusiastic work atmosphere.
• Take part in Health and Safety training.
• General plant and orchard maintenance, assist the team with work in the orchards including but not limited to machinery used on the farms.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a supervisory role (in a similar environment would be desirable).
• Experience with Thiele, WE Plemons, and Unitec equipment an asset.
• General experience working with fully and partially automated cardboard forming equipment, and/or a background in pertinent engineering or mechanical discipline.
• Good eye for detail and quality maintenance.
• Knowledge of fresh fruit processing an asset.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Must be a flexible team player who works well in a busy and demanding environment with staff from all over the world.
• Spanish language skills are considered an asset.
• Well organized, motivated and positive attitude.

Working Conditions

Applicants should be aware that:

• Work hours are not calendar based but are dependent on crop maturity and weather.
• Work hours are generally up to 50 hours per week.
• As this is agricultural employment, overtime provisions do not apply for these positions.
• Environment is cool (~10 C), workers must dress warmly in layered clothing.
• Be always aware of working area, as machinery and pallet jacks will be in operation around you.
• The candidate must have the ability to work well with people of varying backgrounds and nationalities.
• Must be available from June to early September.
• Great teamwork environment.

Anyone who can legally work in Canada can apply for this job. If you are not currently authorized to work in Canada, the employer will not consider your job application.

We appreciate all interest in this position. Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.