Machine Operator - 3rd Shift - Reading, PA

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift - Reading, PA 

Job Description

Join a dynamic and experienced team at a leading pretzel snack manufacturer in Reading, PA. As a Machine Operator, you will play a key role in the final stages of the production process by operating and monitoring equipment that mixes, extrudes, bakes, and packages fresh baked pretzels. You will ensure products are processed efficiently, accurately, and with great care to maintain high quality standards in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up the computer system to run the mixer, extruder, and oven for specific products according to production requirements.
• Monitor the production process by observing computer controls, equipment performance, and performing regular quality checks.
• Adjust production parameters or shut down lines as needed when products do not meet specifications.
• Cut dough and place it into hoppers to feed the production line.
• Maintain consistent dough quality and texture throughout the production run.
• Take product weights and accurately record all required production and quality information.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the processing and oven areas, following sanitation and safety standards.
• Clean and organize the work area regularly to support food safety and efficient operations.
• Follow all safety protocols and report any equipment or process issues promptly.
• Support teammates by covering tasks during others’ lunches or breaks as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall production goals.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience in packaging, production, or machine operation within a food manufacturing environment is a plus.
• Basic mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced team environment.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with team members and supervisors.
• Basic math skills for quantity calculations, measurements, and weight checks.
• Willingness to adhere to safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts and overtime as needed.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in general production, general labor, or machine operation in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience in packaging, inspection, quality control, or similar roles.
• Comfort working with computer-controlled production equipment.
• Ability to adapt to different shift schedules, including day, evening, and night shifts.
• Strong sense of responsibility and reliability in meeting production goals and quality standards.

Work Environment

This role is based in a food manufacturing facility specializing in pretzel production. You will work around mixers, extruders, ovens, and packaging equipment, and the area can become very warm when ovens are running. The schedule typically follows 8-hour shifts, with available shifts including day, evening, and a third shift from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with a shift differential offered for applicable shifts. The environment is fast-paced, production-focused, and emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to food safety and safety protocols.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Reading, PA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $16.32 - $16.32/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 Reading,PA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 22, 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.