Job Details

Production Assistant / Setup Technician (Direct Hire) August 28, 2025

BT899

Located in Rochester, MN

Pay: 47,840

Job Full Description

Job Title: Production Assistant / Setup Technician (2nd Shift)
Department: Packaging & Production Operations
Reports To: Packaging Supervisor / Director of Production
Shift: 2nd Shift (Approx. 2:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m., Monday–Thursday)
Classification: Non-Exempt
 
Position Summary
The Production Assistant / Setup Technician plays a key role in both production and packaging operations by supporting ingredient preparation, equipment setup, operation, and sanitation. This position is responsible for performing technical equipment changeovers, operating and adjusting packaging machinery, preparing raw materials, mixing and transferring ingredients, and ensuring compliance with cGMP, safety, and quality standards. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, as well as the ability to work extended hours with advance or no advance notice to meet production needs.  Comfort with equipment setup, troubleshooting, and operation is critical to success.
 
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Setup & Operation
  • Perform technical setup, adjustments, and format changeovers on packaging equipment (tube fillers, bottle fillers, cartoners, bundlers, labelers, case packers, etc.).
  • Assemble, sanitize, operate, and maintain manufacturing and packaging equipment.
  • Monitor and operate equipment during production runs, making in-process adjustments to ensure consistent performance and minimize downtime.
  • Assist with product and component loading, transfers, and processing.
Production & Line Support
  • Obtain, weigh, and measure raw materials according to batch requirements.
  • Combine and mix ingredients accurately, documenting activities per SOPs.
  • Conduct in-process quality checks (fill weight, torque, label placement, etc.) and record data in compliance with batch records and cGMP standards.
  • Ensure proper line clearance and documentation during lot changeovers and end-of-run procedures.
  • Operate various packaging positions on the fill line as needed
 
Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement
  • Identify and troubleshoot minor equipment issues; escalate complex technical problems to maintenance as needed.
  • Partner with operators, mechanics, and supervisors to optimize efficiency and reduce downtime.
  • Provide feedback to improve equipment reliability, setup efficiency, and production processes.
Compliance & Documentation
  • Complete all setup forms, logbooks, and batch records accurately.
  • Adhere to all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements, including gowning, hygiene, and cleanroom entry protocols.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area and follow sanitation standards for equipment and facilities.
Qualifications
Required:
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • 2+ years of experience in packaging, production, or equipment setup (preferably in a cGMP-regulated environment).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude: ability to read and follow setup instructions, SOPs, and technical drawings.
  • Ability to perform basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and follow written/verbal instructions.
  • Comfortable working with production and packaging equipment, and able to obtain forklift certification.
Preferred:
  • Experience with Norden, Oden, Shanklin, or similar packaging equipment.
  • Prior work in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or food manufacturing operations.
  • Basic troubleshooting knowledge and root cause problem-solving skills.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. regularly; occasionally push/pull up to 600 lbs. using a barrel mover.
  • Stand/walk for long periods on concrete floors; occasionally sitting, kneeling, crouching, and climbing ladders.
  • Manual dexterity to handle small parts, tools, and equipment adjustments.
  • Visual acuity for precise inspections and color differentiation.
Working Conditions
  • Cleanroom and GMP-controlled manufacturing/packaging environment.
  • Exposure to moving parts, vibrations, cleaning chemicals, and moderate-to-loud noise (PPE provided).
  • Fast-paced environment with frequent changeovers and strict quality standards.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Starting wage: $20.00 - $23/hour 
  • Comprehensive benefits package including:
    • Health, Dental, Life, and Disability Insurance
    • HSA, HRA, and Daycare Assistance Plans
    • 401(k) with Profit-Sharing
    • Employee Bonus Program
    • Generous PTO and paid holidays
For more information about this job opportunity, please get in touch with Brad Trahan, Direct Hire Recruiter, Express Employment Professionals/Specialized Recruiting Group, (Rochester, MN.), brad.trahan@expresspros.combrad.trahan@expresspros.com or call direct at 507-280-2617.
 
EEO Statement
The company does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Rochester, MN
1026
2518 North Broadway
Rochester, MN 55906

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