Packaging Operator

Job Title: Packaging Operator
Job Description

The Packaging Operator works on an automated packaging line to ensure that finished pasta products are accurately packaged, labeled, and meet quality standards. This role focuses on monitoring packaging activities, performing visual quality checks, and supporting line operations through material handling and basic cleanup tasks in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and work on an automated packaging line to support continuous production of pasta products.
• Pull products off the line and inspect them to ensure the quality of the packaging and boxing meets established standards.
• Verify the accuracy and readability of barcodes on all packaged products before they leave the line.
• Assist other operators with cleanup tasks to maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Break down cartons and cases and prepare materials for recycling as part of daily production activities.
• Transport cartons and cardboard to the compactor for recycling in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ensure all area totes are in place, correctly positioned, and used according to standard procedures.
• Relieve other packaging operators during break times to maintain consistent production flow.
• Follow all plant safety, quality, and operational procedures while performing daily duties.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors regarding any issues with product quality, packaging materials, or equipment performance.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Ability to stand and remain on your feet for the entire shift.
• Basic comfort working around automated packaging and production line equipment.
• Attention to detail to accurately inspect packaging quality and barcodes.
• Reliability and willingness to work a rotating 12-hour shift schedule (7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 1+ years of previous work experience in production or food manufacturing is preferred but not required.
• General working knowledge of computers is preferred.
• Some mechanical aptitude and general computer knowledge are preferred.
• Experience in packaging, general production, assembly, or manufacturing environments is an asset.
• Background in quality-focused roles or general labor on production lines is beneficial.

Why Work Here?

You will join a stable organization with a strong track record of job security and no layoffs since opening in 1998. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a 6% 401(k) match at a dollar-for-dollar rate, tuition reimbursement to support your ongoing education, and reimbursement for fitness memberships or wellness apps. You can take advantage of club membership reimbursement and an onsite fitness center to support a healthy lifestyle. Team members enjoy free pasta, an annual employee bonus tied to plant and individual performance, and an employee referral bonus program. Flexible scheduling supports work-life balance while you build a long-term career in a supportive, performance-driven environment.

Work Environment

This position is based in a food manufacturing facility on an automated packaging line. The role follows a 12-hour rotating shift schedule from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on a 2 days on, 2 days off, 3 days on, 2 days off pattern. You will work on your feet for the entire shift in a fast-paced production environment that requires regular lifting of up to 50 pounds and frequent movement around the line. The facility emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and safety, with recycling processes in place for cardboard and cartons. You will work closely with other operators and production staff and use standard plant equipment and basic computer interfaces as part of daily operations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $19.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Ames,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 3, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.