Job Opportunities

We are seeking a Production Lab Manager to join our talented and diverse Quality Team in an environment with a strong commitment to internal and external customer service.   Reporting to the Vice President, Technical, the Lab Production Manager will be responsible for overseeing the start-up and operations of a newly established industrial microbiology and analytical lab. The ideal candidate will play a pivotal role in decision-making processes related to equipment selection, installation and validation, workflow design and optimization, while ensuring that all products meet the highest quality standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong entrepreneurial attitude and an initiative-taking work ethic. The individual will be instrumental in ensuring the efficient functioning of the lab, adherence to industry and regulatory standards, and the timely delivery of high-quality results to support Production.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and aseptic techniques in the laboratory. Maintain a safe working environment for all lab personnel.
• Conduct sample preparation and product testing as required to support Production OSCOT.
• Supervise and mentor lab staff, providing guidance and support in their day-to-day activities. Facilitate training programs for lab personnel on equipment usage and aseptic techniques. Foster a collaborative and productive work
• environment among team members.
• Evaluate, select, procure, install, and validate relevant lab equipment.
• Oversee equipment maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting activities.
• Develop and implement efficient and compliant analytical and microbiological testing processes, protocols, and validations.
• Streamline workflows to maximize efficiency and productivity and minimize turnaround times while continuously assessing laboratory procedures for accuracy, reliability, and efficiency.
• Assist in achieving ISO 17025 accreditation and continuously monitor industry standards and regulations to ensure compliance.
• Manage the Production laboratory budget and resources.
• Analyze experimental data and results, preparing comprehensive reports for internal and external stakeholders. Interpret analytical and microbiological findings, providing insights and recommendations based on the results.
• Consult as needed with other departments, such as Production, Quality, R&D, Customer Service and/or Product Safety. 

Required Skills and Experience:

• PhD preferred, bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or related field with appropriate experience accepted
• Have a proven track record with outstanding leadership skills and professionalism
• 5+ years of experience in a microbiology laboratory that conducts traditional microbiological testing, preferably in the consumer goods, food and beverage, or pharmaceutical industry
• In-depth knowledge of and experience using aseptic techniques in a traditional microbiological laboratory (e.g., culture media preparation, plating/inoculation, incubation, enumeration, and identification.)
• Familiarity with Biosafety levels, including demonstrating proficiency in standard microbiological practices and techniques for working with agents requiring BSL-2 containment.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on fostering a positive work environment.
• Experience with or willingness to learn how to operate analytical equipment such as HPLC, GC-FID, ICP-OES, and FT-IR.
• Familiarity with regulatory and quality requirements for laboratories in the OTC and personal care fields.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, for effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with LIMS, ELN, and/or ERP software systems as well as all Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Detail-oriented and possess the ability to multi-task

Reporting to the Manager, Manufacturing, this position supervises production team members while organizing and monitoring workflow in the production areas.  The supervisor oversees the complexities of coordinating the filling, packaging, planning, bulk handling, coaching, and quality measures of the production operation to accomplish a successful execution of the planned schedule.

Responsibilities include:

• Promote a safety workplace atmosphere and maintain an organized, clean work environment.
• Communicate job expectations, planning, monitoring and appraising job results; coaching, training and mentoring employees.
• Completes production plan by scheduling and assigning personnel.  Accomplishing work results, establishing priorities, monitoring progress, revising schedules, and reporting results of the processing flow on shift production summaries.
• Resolve problems and is relentless in continuous improvement using and implementing lean concepts and principles.
• Lead and manage all quality, on time delivery and productivity of assigned work areas, track manufacturing results by preparing and reporting production indicators.  
• Actively collaborate with all functional areas of the operations team to assist the Manufacturing Leadership team in improving a system of production control, standard work, safety, quality control and performance management.
• Oversight of our Red Zone productivity information system compliance
• Build confident, valued, and team-based relationships
• Mentor and support all 5S initiatives and procedures

Requirements desired: 

• Minimum of 5 years of supervisory experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Highly organized and detail oriented
• Ability to motivate and train a variety of people
• Solution-oriented with excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Outstanding interpersonal skills
• Ability to work within a cross function team based environment
• Proficiency with all Microsoft Office applications, experience within ERP and HRIS systems, a plus
• Flexibility in shift schedules required based on manufacturing needs.

Lead Maintenance Technician
Night Shift – Wednesday, Thursday, Friday | 6:45 PM to 7:00 AM

Reporting to the Maintenance Supervisor, the Lead Maintenance Technician is responsible for overseeing all maintenance activities during the shift. This role includes training and mentoring junior maintenance technicians, coordinating with production leadership to meet maintenance needs, and enforcing Autumn Harp’s work rules, values, and expectations in the absence of the Maintenance Supervisor. The Lead Maintenance Technician must possess advanced troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair skills, along with a strong ability to continuously improve filling and packaging machinery and systems. Additionally, this role requires the ability to evaluate, set up, test, and enhance packaging processes and designs while analyzing engineering technology, product specifications, and testing procedures from planning through fulfillment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Mentor and train technicians on shift.
• Install, repair, adjust, overhaul, and maintain packaging machinery and associated equipment in good working order.
• Perform maintenance duties on the packaging line as needed during operation.
• Provide technical support for high-speed packaging line equipment, both mechanically and electrically.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues across various technologies and equipment, including: Tube filling, Blister sealing, Shrink wrapping, Cream/lotion filling, Hot dosing, Labeling, Component sorting, Cartoners, Case packers, Palletizers, Vision Systems, Robotics
• Diagnose technical problems with and without schematics/drawings.
• Ensure all work meets quality and safety standards while adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Maintain, repair, and drive continuous improvement of all machinery and equipment.
• Promote and enforce a safe and clean working environment by upholding procedures, rules, and regulations.

Skills and Qualifications:

• 7–10 years of experience in an industrial setting with filling and packaging equipment.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) in filling and packaging operations.
• Strong knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems and their interconnections.
• Expertise in equipment analysis, manufacturing methods, process improvement, and technical documentation.
• Experience with industrial automation controls is a plus.
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally to meet both internal and external customer needs.

E2 Shift - Thursday, Friday, Saturday 7:00AM - 7:00PM

E4 Shift - Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 7:00PM - 7:00AM

Who we are:

We are a premier contract manufacturer in the beauty and personal care industry.

What you’ll do:

By joining our talented compounding department, you can expect to challenge yourself while performing a variety of tasks. Our Compounding Technician ensures that all products are batched in accordance to the formula manufacturing instructions or “recipe”. You will stage and verify all required ingredients for bulk products and use state-of-the-art machinery to mix and blend raw materials. Our compounding team is responsible for product flow to manufacturing – providing high quality product that meets standards for flavor, color, viscosity and visual appearance.

What we are looking for:

·        A safety first – quality minded team player that is dependable with a positive attitude

·        Ability to read, follow and understand written instruction

·        Demonstrated problem solving ability - solving problems is what we do best

·        Experience with inventory transactions and material movement / forklift certified is a plus

Your benefits package will include:

·        A 3-day work week with paid lunch and breaks

·        Five weeks paid time off annually (a combination of Sick / Personal & Holiday pay) *

·        Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

·        FREE gym membership at the EDGE

·        Up to $5,000 Flex Spending Account (FSA) funds depending on insurance needs

·        401k with company match

Our Location is Ideal:

·        If you enjoy mountain biking – we are located right on the Saxon Hill Bike Trail

·        If you enjoy skiing or trail running – Cochran’s ski area and Catamount Family Center are near by

·        If you enjoy shopping or going to the movies the Essex Outlets is just up the road

·        If you enjoy eating – JCAT, Hoagies, Mimmo's and JP’s Restaurant are just minutes away

Why You Should Apply:

·        Three-day work week

·        Good benefits

·        Career advancement opportunities

·        Overtime availability

·        Great people
Physical Requirements: Sitting, standing, lifting @ 50 lbs. and @ 75 lbs. occasionally. Ability to work around perfumes and fragrance on a daily basis.

*Prorated for new hires

Reporting to the Warehouse Supervisor, the Shipping and Receiving Associate will be responsible for making sure orders get picked correctly and deliveries get out on time.   The right candidate will have the ability to communicate well – both externally and internally; be a team player with a strong work ethic; ability to work productively and independently is essential.  Must be detailed-oriented, highly organized and have previous experience in all warehouse activities including inventory control, shipping systems data entry, forklift operation, and general warehouse reporting functions. 

 Key Responsibilities:

• Shipping - prepare orders effectively to customers routing guide in a timely manner. Load all outgoing shipments onto carriers’ vehicles as necessary
• Receiving – unload delivery vehicles, inspect shipments immediately upon delivery for signs of damage. Process receipt of materials according to warehouse procedures
• Assure proper handling of incoming materials and stock put away
• Order Picking – prepare kits on pallets for production, including raw materials and packaging. Operate Autumn Harp’s powered industrial trucks to transport materials
• Warehousing – assist in maintaining a neat, clean, organized, and safe warehouse. Assist in assurance of proper material flow into and out of the warehouse. Operate forklift and pallet jacks in the warehouse daily. Strive to improve the efficiency of the warehouse
• Reconciling- check for correctness on all production and batching work orders by verifying quantities and lots Responsible for verifying, documenting and transferring in our ERP system as needed for returned merchandise
• Cycle counts – cycle count finished goods, components and supplies in stock
• Post totals to inventory records and investigate discrepancies to find cause 

Required Skills and Experience:

• Experience with shipping and receiving procedures, documentation and safety protocols 
• Must be a team player with good interpersonal skills
• Prior powered industry truck operation and experience
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs
• Good understanding of computer and warehouse data systems
• Must be organized and detail-oriented

E3 Shift: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 7:00pm - 7:00am

Reporting to the Material Handling Supervisor, the Material Handler’s main responsibilities are to manage, prep and prepare all materials for production, verifying the accuracy of the order.  The right candidate will have the ability to communicate well – both externally and internally; be a team player with a strong work ethic; ability to work productively and independently is essential.  Must be detailed-oriented, highly organized, previous forklift a plus.  Must be able to handle 50 lbs. routinely, 75 lbs. occasionally; ability to stand and walk for long periods on a regular basis.   May be required to assist and work on production lines as needed.  

Responsibilities include:

• Verify and deliver materials to production accurately and on time
• Perform the inventory transactions in the ERP system, keeping jobs updated throughout the shift
• Wrap and move pallets to final locations
• Communicate within the production team
• Work in a safe and diligent manner to make sure company guidelines are met

Minimum requirements:

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• General computer proficiency
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and have strong organizational skills
• Timely decision-making and responsiveness
• Possess solid reading and math skills.
• Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team
• Prior forklift experience preferred 

• E2 Shift – Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6:50 AM – 7:00 PM
• E3 Shift - Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 6:50 PM - 7:00 PM

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, Technical Operators are responsible for working with the manufacturing team to ensure that all equipment is performing optimally, operating pieces of equipment on the production floor, as well as assisting Maintenance Technicians with line setups and changeovers of manufacturing lines. Must be detailed-oriented and highly organized.  Must be able to handle up to 50 lbs. and able to stand and walk up to 12 hours on a regular basis.  Would be required to lead and work on production lines as needed.  

 Responsibilities include:

• Assist Maintenance Technicians with changeovers, minor adjustments/repairs and line setups, as needed.
• Performs all of the duties of a manufacturing operator including:
• Starts and stops machines and reports machine issues; reads, understands and follows product specification and operation sheets; inspects containers to specs.
• Fill vats and move kettles; replenishes packaging supplies and machine supplies.
• Completes all associated paperwork associated for each product order.
• Meets production targets on the line by both working the line at various stations and by providing coaching to line workers and temporary associates to meet targets.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks to assist the maintenance team as needed
• Follows all safety guidelines and protocols
• Perform house cleaning (5S) tasks
• Support Operational Excellence program by doing audits and being part of continuous improvement activities

Minimum requirements:

• Strong baseline of mechanical knowledge and aptitude
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• General computer proficiency
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and have strong organizational skills
• Timely decision-making and responsiveness
• Possess solid reading and math skills.
• Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team

Reporting to the Packaging Engineering Manager, the Packaging Engineer works with New Product Development Team managing the detailed understanding and transition of package solutions from development to production including testing, creation of product specifications, and trialing.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the package development from start to finish for a variety of customers
• Coordinates trialing and understanding pack solutions that meet the business and customer’s needs and desires.
• Accountable for Bill of Material, assembly methods and Finish Product specifications
• Be part of the front end development team as the packaging representative to ensure new components are fit for manufacturing, including coordination and analysis of filling testing and trials
• Understand and suggest internal packaging solutions to the operation and R&D teams
• Interface regularly with customers and provide exceptional service solutions to packaging needs and requirements
• Work with packaging vendors to ensure appropriate artwork specifications and deadlines are adhered to
• Understands and reports line performance on new launches in terms of Quality, Service, OEE and labor
• Works with Scrum team to provide outstanding customer service 

Required Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education/appropriate experience
• Relevant packaging experience preferred
• Detail-oriented and possess the ability to multi-task
• Have a proven track record with outstanding leadership skills and professionalism
• Have the ability to thrive while working in a cross functional team based environment
• Experience with Microsoft Office systems, as well as other comparable databases
• Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a personal commitment to succeed