Lead Packaging Technician Columbia, SC
- Full-Time
- On-Site
- Craft Beverage Co-Packing $18 - $22 / hr
- Based on experience
ABOUT THE ROLE
We're a craft beverage co-packing facility in Columbia, SC looking for a hands-on Lead Packaging Technician to own our GEA can line and guide the packaging team through a full production day. You'll be equal parts operator and team leader — keeping the line moving, the product right, and our co-packing clients' brands protected.
RESPONSIBILITIES LINE OPERATION
Operate and oversee the GEA can line at a sustained rate of 100 cans per minute Perform line setup, changeovers, and teardown between co-packing client runs — including SKU changes, label swaps, and package format adjustments Monitor fill levels, seam integrity, carbonation, and DO (dissolved oxygen) to ensure product meets client specs Conduct pre-run checks on filler, seamer, depalletizer, and conveyance systems; identify and resolve mechanical issues to minimize downtime Perform basic preventive maintenance (lubrication, cleaning, adjustments) and flag issues requiring technician escalation Accurately track and record production data including run counts, waste, downtime events, and code dates
QUALITY & COMPLIANCE
Verify labels, lot codes, best-by dates, and packaging materials match client specifications before and during each run Conduct and document in-process quality checks (seam pulls, fill weight, lid application) at scheduled intervals Follow and enforce GMP, food safety, and allergen control protocols; maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the shift Quarantine and document any non-conforming product; assist in root cause investigation and corrective action Complete CIP (clean-in-place) and COP (clean-out-of-place) procedures per sanitation schedule
TEAM LEADERSHIP
Lead and coordinate the packaging crew throughout the production day, assigning tasks and keeping the team focused on output goals Train and mentor new packaging team members on line operation, safety, and quality expectations Serve as the point of contact between the packaging floor and production management during the shift Communicate proactively with client representatives or account managers regarding run progress, yield, and any deviations
INVENTORY & MATERIALS
Stage and verify packaging materials (cans, lids, labels, trays, shrink wrap, cases) ahead of each production run Track material usage and assist with end-of-run reconciliation and component inventory counts Coordinate with the warehouse team for finished goods transfer and proper palletization
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
2+ years of experience on a high-speed canning or packaging line; GEA experience strongly preferred Prior lead, team lead, or supervisory experience in a production or manufacturing environment Familiarity with GMP, food safety standards, and quality documentation Craft beverage, brewery, or co-packing background a plus Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot equipment on the fly Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods in a production environment Reliable, punctual, and communicative — you take ownership of your shift
BENEFITS & PERKS
Competitive pay: $18 - $20/hr based on experience Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Restaurant perks: employee discounts and meals Opportunity to grow with a fast-moving craft beverage operation
Pay:
$18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location:
In person
