Packaging Mechanic (Pharmaceutical Manufacturing)

Location: Manassas, VA

Job Summary
We are seeking a skilled Packaging Mechanic to join our pharmaceutical manufacturing team. The primary responsibility of this role is to ensure the smooth operation of assigned production lines through proper setup and maintenance of packaging equipment. This requires a comprehensive understanding of individual packaging line components, correct setup procedures, and efficient changeover execution. The ideal candidate will be capable of operating multiple machines simultaneously and able to learn and maintain a variety of equipment within the packaging area, including bottle unscramblers, tablet counters, cappers, labelers, cartoners, case packers, and dust collectors.

Areas of Responsibility

• Perform complex adjustments, maintenance, and repairs on packaging and pneumatic equipment.
• Execute changeovers and set up packaging machines; troubleshoot mechanical and basic electrical systems.
• Conduct daily preventive maintenance on plant equipment, including packaging machinery, conveyors, and compressors.
• Assist with equipment installations and complete work orders for machinery repairs.
• Interpret equipment manuals to perform required maintenance and service.
• Diagnose problems, replace or repair parts, and test equipment.
• Use hand and power tools, electric meters, and material-handling equipment.
• Independently set up full-line configurations involving multiple pieces of equipment.
• Identify faulty operations and defective materials, and report unusual situations to a supervisor.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures, cGMPs, Ethical Business Practices, and SOPs.
• Complete and maintain accurate documentation, including operation logs and batch records.
• Ensure product quality meets applicable standards through inspection and testing.
• Guide and coach Packaging Operators on safe, effective machine operation, including training on equipment breakdowns, cleaning, and sanitation procedures.
• Maintain proper gowning and hygiene to ensure product integrity.
• Follow all safety rules and procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Assist with other building mechanical or maintenance needs as required.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance, including the ability to work extended hours and occasional weekend overtime as needed.

Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and assist colleagues.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, electrical schematics, operating and maintenance manuals, work orders, and repair parts requests.
• Skill in using measuring equipment such as tape measures, micrometers, calipers, scales, and VOMs.
• Ability to follow written instructions precisely and perform basic math calculations.
• Understanding of cGMP and OSHA standards.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for disassembling, repairing, and troubleshooting machines.
• Basic English reading and writing skills.
• PLC knowledge is a plus.
• General PC proficiency.

Experience & Education

• High school graduate or GED equivalent required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a packaging mechanic.
• Minimum of 1 year of work experience in the nutritional, supplement, food, or pharmaceutical manufacturing industries.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment

• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. and occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Must stand and walk on the production floor for a minimum of 7 hours per shift.
• Requires frequent use of hands, bending, squatting, and walking.
• Ability to work from rolling ladders or step stools, lean over equipment, and kneel on the floor.
• Must be able to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coats, masks, booties, gloves, safety glasses/goggles, safety shoes, and respirators.
• Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with moderate temperatures and exposure to dust, odors, noise, fumes, chemicals, and cleaning agents. The noise level is usually moderate.