About the Company

Founded in 1876, Sapporo is the first beer of Japan, number one selling Asian beer brand in the U.S., and has grown to become a leading player in the global beer market. With a world-class brewing facility in Richmond, VA, Sapporo USA manages the production, marketing, and distribution of Sapporo's beers nationally. Sapporo’s vision is to “connect worlds” through a shared enjoyment of beer and community. We are proud that our beers are enjoyed around the world, and the spirit of bringing people together remains at the core of what we stand for. We take pride in a rich history following our passion and are in search of people who are committed to help build our legacy for the future.

Summary

The Packaging Technician position operates canning, bottling, and kegging equipment safely and efficiently with the goal of packaging our amazing beers of the highest quality.

We are hiring for an opening on 1st shift. Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm EST.

Responsibilities

• Understand and follow safety rules including safe lifting practices and safe machine operation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to be used where required.
• Understand and utilize proper lockout/tagout procedures per company program.
• Handle chemicals according to proper safe handling procedures.
• Perform visual inspection of boxes to ensure proper box/tray is used and the graphics on the box/tray are acceptable. Must ensure proper coding is on the bottle, cans, boxes/trays, and kegs in accordance with company standards.
• Must accurately fill out process quality checks to verify. Report any major defects or quality issues to the shift lead or supervisor.
• Maintain packaging lines, including starting and stopping packaging equipment
• Perform machine and beer line sanitation and clean in place (CIP) operations
• Accurately complete and update information forms and logs.
• Use software package to accurately track and charge materials to the production orders.
• Effectively communicate to warehouse personnel any and all goods which will need to be returned to inventory if / when not used.
• Perform package format changeovers on equipment and production line as required. Use of hand tools to perform changeovers may be required.
• Load corrugate, labels, bottles/cans/kegs, carriers etc. in appropriate machines
• Watch flow of materials, i.e. cans/bottles/boxes/trays/kegs, etc. into appropriate machine and clear jams if necessary
• Monitor machines while running. Verify that all bottles/cans/kegs are packed into boxes and on pallets correctly.
• Maintain general housekeeping in all areas of production. Bale plastic, cardboard and contaminated bottles/cans/kegs when needed; dispose of materials when needed.
• Operate forklift in safe and efficient manner. Stage/move/load/unload materials.
• Keep production area and packaging equipment sanitary by following a Master Sanitation Schedule.
• Participate in minor to mid-level packaging projects when required.
• Follow all Stones policies, procedures and protocols including established SOPs
• Follow 5S and Lean Manufacturing Principles.
• Maintain cGMP compliance.
• Proactively work with trainer and supervisory team to obtain signoffs and operate equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Recommend changes to SOPs when corrections are needed
• Assist in training team members as needed.
• Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Education: High School diploma or GED
• Experience: Previous bottle, can or keg filling experience is preferred. Previous forklift experience preferred.
• Computer Skills: Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Language Skills: Must be able to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and written.
• Must be able to safely lift up to 50 lbs.
• Travel Requirements: None.

Compensation, Benefits & Perks

• Base Pay: $21.00 - $23.00 per hour
• Comprehensive Health Insurance, 401K, and Bonuses for Eligible Team Members
• Company beer perks program and discounts
• Paid Time Off – including Vacation accrual, Sick Leave, and 12 paid Holidays
• Benefit programs supporting Financial Wellness, Health & Wellness and Career Development

Sapporo USA is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, citizenship status, various ability status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression of an otherwise qualified individual, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. Sapporo USA hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications for the job to be filled.

Sapporo USA seeks to build a culturally diverse staff where differences are valued and respected. Women, minorities, individuals with various abilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ and intersectional individuals are encouraged to apply.