Packaging Line Operator - IOWA CITY
Job Description
Summary/Objective
The Packaging Line Operator is focused on operating our canning line and kegging line safely and with exceptional attention to maintaining beer quality. This role is vital in supporting the team & executing strategies to place our beverages in cans, ready to be enjoyed by the people.
Core Values
Big Grove only hires and retains people who exhibit our core values. Our Core Values are:
Set the Tone
Thirst for Improvement
We Care
Practice Candor
Passion Driven
You will be given a culture deck explaining these core values. The goal of our culture deck is to show you who we are as a company, and then you can decide if you personally align with us and are excited to begin a career here.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Follow and enforce all brewery safety procedures and safe work practices.
Partner with the Quality Lab to ensure canning operations meet quality and specification standards.
Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair packaging equipment, including the canning line, labeler, PakTech applicator, and cartoner.
Use the Hach TPO meter to perform CO₂ and dissolved oxygen (DO) checks and document results as required.
Coordinate with the Packaging Manager/Assistant Packaging Manager to execute canning runs and support distributor order fulfillment.
Diagnose technical issues and implement solutions to minimize downtime in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Clean, sanitize, and maintain the canning line, surrounding work area, and associated equipment.
Operate the bottling line in accordance with established SOPs.
Monitor packaging supply inventory (e.g., PakTechs, labels, empty cans) and communicate par levels and reorder needs.
Perform routine preventative maintenance on pumps, valves, and related equipment.
Proactively identify recurring issues, perform root-cause analysis, and drive corrective actions; expect and address daily operational challenges.
Competencies
Technical & Operational Skills
Equipment Operation: Ability to operate, adjust, and troubleshoot packaging machinery (e.g., canning lines, keg washers, labeling machines).
Mechanical Aptitude: Understanding of basic mechanical functions to perform routine maintenance and minor repairs.
Forklift Operation: Certification in safely handling forklifts for material transport.
Quality Control: Ensure product packaging meets company standards and regulatory requirements.
Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking
Troubleshooting: Ability to identify and resolve equipment issues quickly to minimize downtime.
Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in labeling, packaging, and quality control.
Communication & Teamwork
Collaboration: Working effectively with all parts of production teams.
Clear Communication: Report issues, inventory levels, and operational concerns in a clear and timely manner.
Be a high performing Big Grove team member with ability to look at business as a whole, communicate with all people, collaborate with all departments, work to solve organizational problems, and accomplish goals. Contribute to and exemplify Big Grove values, vision, standards, and culture.
Supervisory Responsibility
Yes. Helps supervise all of the packaging team including scheduling canning run help. Works closely with Packaging Manager, Assistant Packaging Manager, Production Manager and Quality Team to ensure Big Grove produces the best beer possible.
Work Environment
Temperature Variability: The brewery floor may be warm due to production equipment or cooler in storage areas.
Loud Noise Levels: Constant operation of machinery, conveyor belts, and forklifts may require hearing protection.
Fast-Paced Setting: Production deadlines and efficiency standards demand a high level of focus and speed.
Wet or Slippery Floors: Frequent cleaning, liquid spills, and condensation are common, requiring proper footwear.
Exposure to Chemicals: Cleaning and sanitizing agents are used regularly, requiring protective gear.
Physical Demands
Standing for Long Periods: Requires being on your feet for extended shifts, often 8+ hours.
Frequent Lifting & Carrying: Lifting heavy equipment , cases of beer and kegs, often weighing up to 50 lbs.
Fast & Continuous Movement: Walking, bending, reaching, and turning quickly to keep up with packaging demands.
Repetitive Motions – Engaging in tasks such as packing, stacking, labeling, and operating machinery.
Endurance & Stamina: High energy and focus needed to sustain fast-paced work for long shifts.
Dexterity & Hand-Eye Coordination: Essential for precise packaging, canning, etc
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position and hours of work/days may vary from week to week. Schedules will be posted the week prior to allow time for employees to be informed of work requirements. The business is open 7 days a week. Evenings are likely a key requirement, occasional weekends may be needed. Expected hours are 40 to 45 hours a week.
Travel
In town travel between Big Grove breweries is required.
Preferred Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent.
Up to 1 year of related management experience
1-3 years of experience working in the brewery industry
Packaging line operation experience is preferred.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.