Lead Packaging Technician
Columbia, SC · Full-Time · On-Site · Craft Beverage Co-Packing
$18 – $22 / hr · Based on experience
ABOUT THE ROLE
We’re a craft beverage co-packing facility in Columbia, SC looking for a hands-on Lead Packaging Technician to own our GEA can line and guide the packaging team through a full production day. You’ll be equal parts operator and team leader — keeping the line moving, the product right, and our co-packing clients’ brands protected.
RESPONSIBILITIES
LINE OPERATION
- Operate and oversee the GEA can line at a sustained rate of 100 cans per minute
- Perform line setup, changeovers, and teardown between co-packing client runs — including SKU changes, label swaps, and package format adjustments
- Monitor fill levels, seam integrity, carbonation, and DO (dissolved oxygen) to ensure product meets client specs
- Conduct pre-run checks on filler, seamer, depalletizer, and conveyance systems; identify and resolve mechanical issues to minimize downtime
- Perform basic preventive maintenance (lubrication, cleaning, adjustments) and flag issues requiring technician escalation
- Accurately track and record production data including run counts, waste, downtime events, and code dates
QUALITY & COMPLIANCE
- Verify labels, lot codes, best-by dates, and packaging materials match client specifications before and during each run
- Conduct and document in-process quality checks (seam pulls, fill weight, lid application) at scheduled intervals
- Follow and enforce GMP, food safety, and allergen control protocols; maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the shift
- Quarantine and document any non-conforming product; assist in root cause investigation and corrective action
- Complete CIP (clean-in-place) and COP (clean-out-of-place) procedures per sanitation schedule
TEAM LEADERSHIP
- Lead and coordinate the packaging crew throughout the production day, assigning tasks and keeping the team focused on output goals
- Train and mentor new packaging team members on line operation, safety, and quality expectations
- Serve as the point of contact between the packaging floor and production management during the shift
- Communicate proactively with client representatives or account managers regarding run progress, yield, and any deviations
INVENTORY & MATERIALS
- Stage and verify packaging materials (cans, lids, labels, trays, shrink wrap, cases) ahead of each production run
- Track material usage and assist with end-of-run reconciliation and component inventory counts
- Coordinate with the warehouse team for finished goods transfer and proper palletization
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
- 2+ years of experience on a high-speed canning or packaging line; GEA experience strongly preferred
- Prior lead, team lead, or supervisory experience in a production or manufacturing environment
- Familiarity with GMP, food safety standards, and quality documentation
- Craft beverage, brewery, or co-packing background a plus
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot equipment on the fly
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods in a production environment
- Reliable, punctual, and communicative — you take ownership of your shift
BENEFITS & PERKS
- Competitive pay: $18 – $20/hr based on experience
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Restaurant perks: employee discounts and meals
- Opportunity to grow with a fast-moving craft beverage operation
Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
