Gatekeeper

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Gatekeeper plays a critical role in supporting Production and Shipping operations by ensuring finished products are properly prepared, labeled, inventoried, and stored, while also ensuring raw materials are available to maintain continuous production. This position serves as a key communication link between Operations, Production, and Shipping to facilitate the efficient flow of materials throughout the facility and minimize production downtime.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

•  Verify that all finished pallets are properly wrapped, labeled, and prepared before being placed into cooler storage.
•  Create, maintain, and accurately track pallet inventory within the inventory management system
•  Print pallet labels and verify the accuracy of all product information.
•  Print case labels and ensure all product information is accurate and compliant with production requirements.
•  Coordinate with Production Leads and the Shipping Department to ensure raw materials are delivered to the production floor in a timely manner.
•  Monitor raw material inventory levels and communicate shortages or concerns to the appropriate departments.
•  Complete inventory transactions accurately and in a timely manner.
•  Support production operations by ensuring materials are readily available to prevent downtime caused by inventory shortages.
•  Serve as a communication link between Operations and Shipping to ensure efficient material movement throughout the facility.
•  Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety, quality assurance, and workplace safety policies and procedures.
•  Assist with other duties as assigned to support operational needs.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:

•  Maintain accurate inventory records and documentation.
•  Ensure all pallets are correctly wrapped, labeled, and ready for storage or shipment.
•  Demonstrate strong attention to detail when processing inventory transactions and labeling products.
•  Communicate effectively with Operations, Shipping, and Production Leads.
•  Respond promptly to production material requests to minimize downtime.
•  Maintain organization and accountability in all inventory-related activities.
•  Adhere to all food safety, quality, and workplace safety standards.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED:

•  High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
•  Basic computer skills and ability to learn inventory management systems.
•  Ability to read and understand production labels, inventory records, and work instructions
•  Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
•  Effective communication and teamwork skills.
•  Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous experience in manufacturing, food production, warehousing, inventory control, or shipping. 
• Experience using inventory management or warehouse management systems.
• Forklift certification or willingness to become certified, if required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. 
• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. 
• Ability to work in refrigerated and production environments. 
• Ability to bend, reach, twist, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position operates in a food manufacturing environment and may require exposure to cold temperatures, moving equipment, forklifts, and production machinery. Employees must follow all GMP, food safety, quality, and safety requirements at all times.