Packaging Line Operator [East Boston, MA]

Packaging Line Operator – East Boston, MA

Location: East Boston, MA (The Shipyard)
Schedule: Full-Time, 8-hour shifts | Monday–Friday (1st Shift: 7am–3pm | 2nd Shift: 3pm–11pm)
Compensation: Starting at $20/hr + additional pay for prior experience

Mission Statement — Downeast Cider

“If we create value for customers, we create value for ourselves in fulfilling work and robust compensation. This requires a world-class brand and a world-class team.”

Mission Statement — Packaging Line Operator

The Packaging Line Operator is the engine room of Downeast. Your mission is to master the technical art of canning and kegging, ensuring every drop of cider meets our quality standards at a high-velocity pace (285 cans per minute!). This is an evergreen role —we are always scouting for disciplined, high-motor individuals to join our talent pipeline as we expand. Whether we’re hiring today or tomorrow, we want the best operators ready to step up.

Who You Are

• Is Disciplined & Safety-First: You follow SOPs to the letter, take ownership of your station, and keep quality top of mind.

• Thrives on the Hustle: You aren't intimidated by high speeds or repetitive tasks; you find a rhythm and stay focused.

• Is a "Self-Improver": You learn new machinery quickly, ask sharp questions, and use feedback to sharpen your skills.

• Has Grit: You’re comfortable lifting heavy objects and working in the elements (hot, cold, damp, or confined spaces).

• Is a Team Player: When a tank needs emptying or a deadline is looming, you stay until the job is done to support the crew.

Key Responsibilities

Master the Machinery

• Operate state-of-the-art canning and kegging equipment safely and efficiently.

• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance (CIP/SOP) to keep the line running at peak performance.

• Troubleshoot minor mechanical issues on the fly to minimize downtime. Own the Data

• Accurate record-keeping is vital; you’ll enter packaging data through web-based forms and spreadsheets.

• Ensure all finished goods meet our strict "unfiltered" quality specs. Flex the Logistics

• Operate forklifts to stage raw materials and move finished pallets into the warehouse.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace in the heart of the shipyard.

Required Qualifications

• Legal: At least 21 years old (federal & state alcohol regulations).

• Physical: Ability to stand for 8 hours and lift up to 50 lbs repeatedly.

• Availability: Must be available for at least one of our two primary shifts (bonus points for full flexibility).

• Mindset: A "can-do" attitude and a high motor.

• Reliability: A track record of showing up on time, every time.

Bonus Points:

• Prior experience in food, beverage, or high-speed manufacturing.

• A mechanical background or experience with industrial equipment.

What We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Health and dental insurance from Day 1 , plus company-paid short-term disability.

• Time Off: 16 PTO days in your first year, plus paid holidays, sick days, bereavement, and parental leave.

• Future Focus: 401(k) with a company match.

• The Perks: Annual PPE stipend, company-wide holiday party, and a consistent cider allowance (keep your fridge stocked).

• Growth: This isn’t just a shift; it’s a career path. Successful operators are the first in line for leadership roles and cross-department training.

About Downeast Cider

We first started fermenting batches of cider up at Bates College in 2011. We have a few more teammates now, and you can buy our cider in tens of thousands of retailers. Our aim remains the same: to be an enduring company by creating value for our customers and ourselves.

We like to hire the way we like our cider: unfiltered . We are proud to hire regardless of gender, race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, age, or anything else that makes us who we are.