Machine Operator/Production Worker

Don's Prepared Foods is a prominent food manufacturing company located on the East Coast, recognized as a leading producer of gourmet deli salads, cream cheese spreads, dips, entrées, and various other specialty food products. As a family-owned business, Don's Prepared Foods prides itself on tradition, quality, and a commitment to excellence, having developed a broad portfolio featuring over 130 unique products across three distinguished brands: Don’s Salads, Melanie’s Medleys, and Artisan Deli. Each brand is celebrated for its dedication to high culinary standards and the use of premium ingredients, catering to consumers seeking delicious and convenient food options. Located in Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, the company has established a reputation for maintaining a safe and clean production environment that supports sustainable practices and ensures compliance with food safety regulations.

The Machine Operator role at Don’s Prepared Foods offers an excellent opportunity for individuals eager to join the food manufacturing sector in an essential production capacity. This position is hourly and non-exempt, requiring early morning shifts starting at 4 AM from Monday through Friday, with flexible ending hours depending on production requirements. It is designed for candidates who are consistent, organized, and dedicated, particularly those with a background in production or manufacturing environments. While previous experience in food safety is preferred, the company provides comprehensive on-the-job training to ensure that all operators are well-prepared to handle their responsibilities efficiently.

The Machine Operator will play a critical role within the production department by performing a variety of tasks that ensure the high quality of Don’s Prepared Foods products and the smooth operation of the manufacturing equipment. Responsibilities include conducting quality checks on finished products to verify adherence to recipe specifications, inspecting machinery to detect any malfunctions, verifying the integrity of membrane seals on product containers, and performing metal detector calibration checks. Operators are also accountable for labeling checks and inventory counts, assisting with can opening and salad preparation, completing daily documentation with accuracy, and maintaining a safe and sanitary workplace.

This role demands physical endurance as it involves standing for extended periods and the ability to lift or push/pull equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. The production environment maintains temperatures of 34 to 36 degrees Fahrenheit, so candidates must be comfortable working in cold settings. Additionally, strong communication skills in English are necessary to comprehend procedures, enter data into the company’s ERP system via tablet, and report any maintenance issues promptly.

Don's Prepared Foods not only values the technical skills of their employees but also fosters a positive work environment through culture initiatives such as Safe Quality Food (SQF) culture, a certified safety committee, employee recognition programs, and continuous educational opportunities through Alchemy Education Training. With competitive starting pay and a robust benefits package that kicks in after 60 days of employment, this role is attractive for individuals seeking a stable and rewarding career in food production. Benefits include medical, dental, supplemental insurances, a 401k company match, paid holidays, paid time off including birthday PTO, and a sign-on bonus after six months of employment.

Candidates must pass an extensive pre-employment criminal background check and drug screening to uphold the company’s commitment to safety and integrity. As an equal opportunity employer, Don’s Prepared Foods encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including minority groups, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and people of varying gender identities and sexual orientations. Fluency in Spanish is a welcomed asset in this bilingual-friendly environment. This position offers a meaningful chance to become part of a stable, family-operated food manufacturing leader that values quality, consistency, and employee well-being.