Samples Materials Handler in Niles, Illinois at Greenwood Associates Inc.

Greenwood Associates Inc. is a family owned and operated distributor of natural fruit and vegetable juice concentrates, purees, and essential oils, proudly serving the food and beverage industry since 1974. With over 50 years of experience, Greenwood provides high quality products, custom blending, packaging, and logistics solutions to customers across North America. Rooted in strong relationships and a people first culture, Greenwood values teamwork, accountability, and long-term growth. As a stable, multi generation business, we empower employees to make an impact, build lasting partnerships, and grow their careers in an environment that values integrity and collaboration.

Reporting to the Inventory Manager, the Samples Materials Handler is responsible for performing picking and packing of samples, as well as all other samples-related activities. This position has constant interaction with internal departments from sales to production. This is a full-time, on premise, at-will, non-exempt hourly position.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform all tasks related to samples operations:
• Pick, pack, and ship all customer sample orders daily
• Proficiency in using WMS scanners to complete operational tasks
• Provide support to the Samples Coordinator for all sample related tasks
• Retrieve and pour samples from production floor when needed
• Organize and maintain samples area
• Perform inventory cycle counts on a weekly basis for product as well as packaging materials, potentially using a pallet jack or a forklift.
• Become proficient in multiple department functions and processes to engage in various roles across facility and provide backup to other personnel
• Participate in training sessions, plant meetings, teams, and committees
• Ensure proper time keeping and leave approval per company policies
• Collaborate with leadership to share team successes and areas of opportunity or development.
• Adhere to company policies, procedures and work instructions including but not limited to safety policies, GMP’s, HAACP and FSSC 22000 standards.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience with warehousing; picking, packing, and shipping orders preferred
• Previous experience with food manufacturing or fluid processing required
• Training and certification to operate “sit-down” and “high-lift” forklifts preferred
• Willingness to learn ERP system and new functionalities to improve efficiency and effectiveness
• Strong interpersonal relationship skills
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Basic math skills and reading comprehension
• Exceptional communication skills; including ability to communicate, read, write, and comprehend standard operating procedures, policies, and instructions
• Attention to detail and ability to accurately and efficiently multitask while working in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility in working hours as needed by the operation, including overtime as necessary

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to use close vision and peripheral vision to identify product, label, container, and equipment issues; physically lift and handle up to 60-pound pails, packages, and containers; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects and/or tools; bend, stoop, kneel, and stand for extended periods performing repetitive motions
• Ability to tolerate exposure to temperature changes and varying noise levels, including at freezer and refrigerator temperatures for extended periods of time (equipped with appropriate cold weather outer wear and other PPE)

Benefits Offered:

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Accident/Critical Illness Insurance

Generous PTO Accrual

Paid Holidays