Packaging Lead
Mars Incorporated - Columbia, SC
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Job Description: Packaging Lead Being a Mars Associate is all about opportunity. The opportunity to do the kind of challenging, interesting work that shapes the world's best-loved brands. To work with real purpose, supported by talented, friendly people from all sorts of different backgrounds. And to access the tools, training, and experience you need to have a positive impact on our business, on the planet, and, most importantly, on your own career. Being a Mars Associate is more than a job. It's the opportunity to start your tomorrow, today. Job Level: Business Operations - B4II Shift: Must be willing and able to work rotating schedules. The shift for this role will be a rotating 12-hour shift, 2, 2, 3 work schedule. The Packaging Lead requires the knowledge and skills to manage the flow of finished kibble efficiently and safely through the packaging, palletizing and warehouse areas into high quality finished product in the proper packaging mix and according to schedule and is expected to do so in the absence of a shift manager. This position facilitates communication, information, and integration of activities between packaging, processing, maintenance, and other areas as needed to optimize overall operation within the facility. This position also performs preventative maintenance, mechanically troubleshoots system equipment, and is responsible for training other packaging associates. The overall goal is to provide our customers with the proper quality product at the proper destination in a timely and most cost-effective manner. What are we looking for? Individuals who are motivated to help others and work on your own initiative Meets and exceeds expected levels of production and quality Can work methodically and meet deadlines Problem solving/troubleshooting as necessary Performs a variety of tasks related to our operations as needed Strong math, communication, reading and writing skills Key Responsibilities Responsible for the total operation of any combination of the following unit operations. Operations include operating all systems components, performing all quality checks, maintaining conformance reports, systems logs and other needed data, troubleshooting all aspects of each system, maintaining area in a clean, orderly manner. Coordinate all line activities, develop work assignments, and communicate schedules and procedures to other packaging associates. Coordinate schedules and issues resolution with processing associates. Coordinate maintenance activities. Coordinate other activities and resources as needed through palletizing and stretch wrapping and into the warehouse. Big Bag Line operation- operates a big bag line from bunkers through stretch wrapper to schedule, do changeovers, and troubleshoot lines. Small Bag Line operation- operates a small bag line from bunkers through stretch wrappers to schedule, do changeovers, troubleshoot lines. Flexible Packaging operator - Provides packaging materials to lines as needed. Stage materials for shift. Return unused materials to storage after run is complete. Train all new packaging operators in all aspects of operations such as line operation, palletizers, MIS systems, SQC, PC's, HAACP, CCP and repair of equipment to meet current certification and training requirements. Participate in setting the strategy for the packaging system to ensure meeting or exceeding production schedule in the most efficient manner possible. Prepare and maintain SOP's and training modules. Associate is responsible for communicating and escalating any quality and food safety concerns to site management. Coordinate area activities in such a way as to minimize waste and cost and ensure continuous plant operations. Recognize trends and assess situations early and accurately to take effective and tactful action to correct to ensure product quality while minimizing unnecessary downtime. Prepare and maintain SOP's and training modules. Ability to resolve conflicts, create a positive work environment, coach, and develop associates Communicate effectively and timely with all support functions across the business to facilitate change through identifying cause and effect relationships while developing strategies to improve results. Other similar duties as assigned. Additional Responsibilities Lead or participate in groups to improve performance or resolve issues as appropriate. Assist Warehouse/Shipping functions as needed and available. Participate in site safety and quality programs and actively look for ways to improve site and area quality and safety. Physical/Environmental Requirements Be 18 years of age or older Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent education Basic knowledge of personal computers through demonstrated competency in software including MS Office and email Must be willing and able to work rotating schedules. Ability to understand and effectively communicate in the English language High Level of mechanical aptitude and knowledge, with good skills in troubleshooting and problem solving Most recent Performance appraisal with a minimum of "Meets" expectations and not more than 1 year old. No active disciplinary notices. Acceptable attendance (less than 5 incidents and no discipline above an Initial Warning) Minimum Qualifications Be 18 years of age or older Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent education Basic knowledge of personal computers through demonstrated competency in software including MS Office and email Must be willing and able to work rotating schedules. Ability to understand and effectively communicate in the English language High Level of mechanical aptitude and knowledge, with good skills in troubleshooting and problem solving Most recent Performance appraisal with a minimum of "Meets" expectations and not more than 1 year old. No active disciplinary notices. Acceptable attendance (less than 5 incidents and no discipline above an Initial Warning) Desired Education High school diploma and 2 years' experience in a manufacturing environment, or equivalent combination of education and experience What can you expect from Mars? Work with over 130,000 like-minded and talented Associates, all guided by The Five Principles. Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today. An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus. Disclaimer: Mars is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.
Created: 2026-03-11