Job Summary

The Technical Specialist is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Neck-Down Department, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This role provides hands-on technical support through troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, equipment optimization, and production assistance. The Technical Specialist ensures all containers meet internal specifications, customer requirements, and Quality Assurance standards while supporting continuous improvement initiatives and operator development.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide on-shift technical support for Neck-Down equipment and processes.
• Lead by example by consistently adhering to and promoting all safety, quality, and operational standards, while proactively identifying and communicating any deviations.
• Assist in identifying and resolving production and quality issues by participating in root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
• Support the training, coaching, and development of operators to improve technical skills, performance, and adherence to standard work.
• Communicate departmental expectations, standard operating procedures, and best practices while documenting performance observations and development opportunities.
• Ensure operators complete all required daily maintenance and inspection activities.
• Support equipment changeovers by monitoring compliance with standard operating procedures, assessing tooling condition, and ensuring tooling is properly maintained and returned to designated storage areas.
• Assist with quarterly and annual Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) activities.
• Monitor equipment performance and efficiency, ensuring maintenance work orders are submitted and tracked to completion as needed.
• Exercise authority to stop or modify production processes when product quality, food safety, or employee safety is at risk.
• Promptly report any food safety, quality, or regulatory concerns to the Quality Assurance Manager.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and operational excellence.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of advanced technical experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to train, coach, and motivate employees in a production environment.
• Strong organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical documentation, procedures, and equipment specifications is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout a manufacturing facility for up to 12 hours per shift.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety shoes and other safety gear as required.

Work Environment

This position operates within a manufacturing environment and requires regular exposure to moving mechanical equipment, elevated noise levels, and varying temperatures. The Technical Specialist routinely utilizes computer systems, production monitoring tools, and communication devices to perform job responsibilities effectively. Strict adherence to safety, quality, and food safety standards is required at all times.