Packaging Associate I & II – Beverage Manufacturing

Packaging Associate I & II – Beverage Manufacturing

Company: Endless West
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Available Shifts: 1st and 2nd Shift

About Us

We're Endless West, makers of molecular spirits. Our small, independent team of scientists, sommeliers, writers, chefs, and dropouts is creating the next generation of wine and spirits.

We're relentlessly curious, optimistic enough to pursue ambitious ideas, and committed to exploring the limits of what's possible through scientific innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

Everyone is welcome at Endless West. We believe diverse teams build better products and are committed to creating an inclusive culture built on respect for all individuals.

About the Role

Endless West is seeking motivated, dependable, and detail-oriented Packaging Associates I and II to join our growing beverage manufacturing team in Detroit, Michigan.

We are hiring for both entry-level and experienced positions across first and second shifts.

Packaging Associates play an essential role in our daily production operations, supporting the packaging of still and carbonated beverages in bottles, cans, and other containers.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in beverage manufacturing environments similar to Faygo, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, breweries, distilleries, and other food or liquid production facilities.

The ideal candidate is safety-conscious, quality-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Candidates with experience operating automated or semi-automated packaging equipment are strongly encouraged to apply.

Placement at the Packaging Associate I or II level will be determined based on relevant experience, technical knowledge, and demonstrated skills.

Available Shifts

1st Shift
• Monday–Friday
• 7:00 AM–3:30 PM

2nd Shift
• Monday–Friday
• 3:00 PM–11:30 PM

Both shifts include a 30-minute unpaid lunch and two paid 10-minute breaks.

Key Responsibilities

Packaging Operations
• Support daily packaging operations according to established production schedules and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Operate, monitor, or assist with beverage packaging equipment, including filling, capping, labeling, and conveyor systems, based on experience and assigned responsibilities.
• Assist with packaging still and carbonated beverages in bottles, cans, and other containers.
• Supply production lines with bottles, cans, caps, labels, cartons, and other required packaging materials.
• Monitor product flow and assist with maintaining efficient packaging line operations.
• Inspect finished products for proper fill levels, seals, caps, labels, date codes, and overall packaging quality.
• Identify and remove defective or damaged products from production lines.
• Assist with production line setup, changeovers, startup, and shutdown procedures.
• Maintain accurate production records and complete required documentation.
• Follow established Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), safety procedures, and quality standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized production environment.
• Communicate production delays, equipment concerns, and quality issues to the Packaging Team Lead or Production Manager.
• Support continuous improvement efforts to reduce waste, improve productivity, and minimize downtime.
• Perform additional production-related duties as assigned.

Position Levels & Qualifications

Packaging Associate I – Entry-Level / Developing

This position is designed for individuals with general manufacturing, warehouse, packaging, or production experience who are interested in developing skills in beverage manufacturing.

Qualifications:
• Previous manufacturing, warehouse, packaging, or production experience preferred.
• Ability to follow written instructions, SOPs, and established safety procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to perform repetitive production tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing equipment and production line operations preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn new equipment and processes.
• Dependable attendance and ability to meet production expectations.

Packaging Associate II – Experienced / Skilled

This position is designed for candidates with hands-on experience in beverage packaging, bottling, canning, or automated manufacturing operations.

In addition to the general packaging responsibilities, Level II associates may be responsible for operating equipment more independently, assisting with line changeovers, troubleshooting routine equipment issues, and supporting less-experienced associates.

Qualifications:
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in beverage packaging, bottling, canning, or automated manufacturing operations preferred.
• Experience operating or supporting automated or semi-automated packaging equipment.
• Familiarity with liquid filling machines, cappers, labelers, conveyors, and related production equipment.
• Ability to assist with equipment setup, adjustments, and production line changeovers.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to identify and troubleshoot routine equipment issues.
• Experience performing production quality checks and maintaining accurate documentation.
• Understanding of GMP, manufacturing safety procedures, and quality standards.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining production efficiency and product quality.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to assist with training and supporting Packaging Associate I employees as needed.

Nice to Have
• Experience in beverage manufacturing, including environments such as Faygo, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, breweries, or distilleries.
• Experience working with carbonated beverage filling and packaging equipment.
• Familiarity with automated bottling, canning, labeling, and conveyor systems.
• Experience performing production line changeovers and basic equipment troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of food safety, GMP, and sanitation procedures.
• Experience with manufacturing documentation or production tracking systems.
• Forklift operation experience or certification.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including shifts of eight hours or more.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive physical tasks.
• Comfortable working around moving manufacturing equipment and production machinery.
• Work is performed in a manufacturing environment that may become noisy, damp, or wet.
• Facility temperatures may vary seasonally due to the absence of central air conditioning and heating.
• Required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and hearing protection, will be provided.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Why Endless West?

At Endless West, we believe great products start with great people. We value teamwork, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Our manufacturing team plays an essential role in bringing innovative beverage products to life. We provide opportunities for employees to develop their technical skills, expand their manufacturing knowledge, and contribute to a growing organization.

Benefits may include:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan (no employer match)
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Additional company-sponsored benefits, subject to eligibility

Equal Employment Opportunity

Endless West is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Pay: From $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:
• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):
• Which shift are you available to work?

1st Shift (7:00 AM–3:30 PM) | 2nd Shift (3:00 PM–11:30 PM) | Either Shift

Experience:
• Packaging: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person