Packaging Operator

The Packaging Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment, including case packers and baggers, to ensure products are correctly sealed and packaged in line with specification and quality standards.

The role is based at a manufacturing site in Drogheda and operates on a shift-based schedule. It plays a critical part in maintaining uninterrupted production line performance, supporting overall operational efficiency, quality, and compliance.

The Packaging Operator contributes to achieving production targets, improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), and driving continuous improvement initiatives across the packaging area.

Role Responsibilities

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Carry out all duties in accordance with Health & Safety legislation, Safe Systems of Work (SSOWs), product specifications, and site procedures

• Operate all equipment safely and efficiently using prescribed work methods

• Ensure housekeeping and 6S standards are consistently maintained within the work and pallet wrapping areas

• Dispose of waste in line with Environmental Management System (EMS) procedures and report waste generated

Equipment & Line Operation

• Operate case packers , baggers and conveyors to ensure correct sealing and packaging of finished product

• Confirm production plans and raw material availability at the start of each shift

• Test line readiness in advance of production

• Ensure correct programs and formats are selected for different SKUs

• Set up equipment and carry out changeovers in line with standard settings and SMED requirements Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance of case packers, baggers and conveyors

• Clean, lubricate, and inspect equipment in line with Autonomous Maintenance SOPs (DFF & CIL)

Quality, Performance & Documentation

• Monitor line performance and log downtime accurately using TrakSYS to support OEE targets

• Complete all relevant production and process documentation accurately

• Record raw material usage, codes, and daily opening/closing stock counts

• Inspect raw materials for quality issues and escalate concerns promptly

• Identify sources of material waste or product losses and support corrective actions

• Escalate issues, downtime, and improvement opportunities via PIT boards and PEMAC

requests

Teamwork & Continuous Improvement

• Carry out effective handovers between shifts using PIT boards, handover logs, and process

• documentation

• Actively participate in problem identification, root cause analysis, and continuous

• improvement activities

• Communicate effectively with Line Leaders, Maintenance, Quality, and other support teams

• Perform any other reasonable duties as required to support production needs

(This is not an exhaustive list and may be subject to change and amendment)

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

Essential (Non-Negotiable)

• Minimum 2 years’ experience operating machinery in a high-volume manufacturing or packaging environment

• Proven experience working on production or packaging lines, supporting continuous operation and meeting daily output targets

• Demonstrated ability to operate, monitor, and adjust packaging equipment in line with standard operating procedures

• Hands-on experience completing production documentation, including downtime logging, quality checks, and material usage records

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify defective product, incorrect materials, or process deviations

• Basic mechanical aptitude with the ability to carry out routine inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and minor autonomous maintenance

• Experience working to Health & Safety, quality, and food safety standards within a regulated manufacturing environment

• Good communication skills, with the ability to provide clear shift handovers and escalate issues appropriately

• Ability to work methodically and under pressure to meet production schedules

• Demonstrated capability to work both independently and as part of a team in a shift-based environment

Desirable (Value Adding)

• Experience operating automated packaging machinery such as case packers or baggers (Meypack experience an advantage)

• Familiarity with OEE concepts and downtime systems (e.g. TrakSYS or similar)

• Experience with SMED, 6S, Lean, or continuous improvement tools

• Previous experience in FMCG or high-care manufacturing environments

Qualifications & Certifications

• Formal Education: Leaving Certificate or equivalent desirable.

• Certifications: Manual Handling, Health & Safety, or similar manufacturing-relevant training is advantageous.

• Equivalency: Relevant practical manufacturing experience may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications

WaterWipes Competencies to Perform the Role

• Accountability: Takes ownership for safe, accurate, and timely operation of packaging equipment, accepting responsibility for actions, outcomes, and prompt escalation of issues.

• Integrity: Consistently follows Health & Safety, quality, food safety, and company procedures, acting honestly and professionally in line with WaterWipes values.

• Driving for Results: Demonstrates a strong focus on achieving daily production, quality, and OEE targets through reliable performance and sustained effort.

• Decision Making: Makes sound, timely decisions within own area of responsibility and escalates concerns appropriately when issues fall outside role scope.

• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues and cross-functional teams, contributing positively to shift handovers, communication, and shared production goals.

• Driving Performance: Actively supports line performance by communicating clearly, logging downtime accurately, identifying problems, and contributing practical improvement ideas.

Functional Competencies to Perform the Role

• Safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment, including case packers, baggers and conveyors, in line with standard operating procedures and safety requirements.

• Ability to set up equipment, carry out changeovers, and select and verify correct programs for different product formats and SKUs.

• Competence in Autonomous Maintenance activities, including routine cleaning, inspection, lubrication, and early identification of equipment defects (DFF & CIL).

• Accurate and timely completion of production paperwork, including downtime logging (e.g. TrakSYS), process control sheets, and raw material stock counts.

• Practical understanding of OEE principles, common downtime causes, and actions required to minimise losses and improve line performance.

• Ability to inspect raw materials and finished products to ensure compliance with quality standards and product specifications.

• Strong adherence to 6S standards, ensuring a clean, organised, and safe working environment at all times.

• Effective shift handover communication, using PIT boards, handover logs, and process documentation to ensure continuity of operations.

• Basic problem identification and root‑cause awareness, with the ability to escalate issues and contribute to continuous improvement activities. Is familiar with standard settings on the plant and how to escalate when not in standard