Material Handler
Position: Material HandlerLocation: Empire, MI (On-Site)Summary of Position: Cherry Republic’s Material Handler is responsible for the accurate and efficient pulling of raw ingredients and component goods to support active production lines, as well as the organized put away of finished goods following good manufacturing practices. The Material Handler ensures that all materials are handled in compliance with food safety standards, inventory controls, and company SOPs, contributing directly to the quality and consistency of our products.Essential Responsibilities: Accurately pull raw ingredients and verify item quantities, lot numbers, and expiration dates against pick documentation before staging materials for production Maintain cleanliness and organization of raw material storage areas, including dry storage, refrigerated, and frozen zonesReceive completed production runs and verify finished goods against batch records and packing documentationApply correct lot codes, date codes, and labels to finished goods as required prior to put away.Participate in daily, weekly, and cycle count inventory activities to maintain accuracy Operate material handling equipment safely and in accordance with company policy and MIOSHA standardsMaintain a clean, organized, and food-safe work environment always; adhere to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards Assist with receiving incoming shipments of raw materials and supplies as needed Support cross-functional teams including production, quality assurance, and fulfillment during peak periods Necessary Skills:Ability to maintain order with a variety of different storage environments, including but not limited to dry, refrigerated and frozen storage settings. Proficient using ERP and data management systems.Ability to multitask. High attention to detail. Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to stay organized and transparently communicate information. Participate in cross training and continuous skill development. Must be able to occasionally work weekends and after-hours during peak times. Ability to obtain and maintain a forklift license. Qualifications for the Job: To perform this job successfully, you must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability you are required to possess. Reasonable accommodation may be provided, should you have a disability, to allow you to perform the essential functions.Education & Experience - High School diploma or equivalent required. Minimum 1 year of experience in a warehouse, food manufacturing, or distribution environment preferred. OSHA and GMP training a plus. Language Skills- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret data and specifications related to equipment, safety, and warehouse operations. Mathematical Skills- Ability to calculate figures and amounts when analyzing data. Reasoning Ability- Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to communicate issues accurately and thoroughly to all individuals involved. Assist in the development of solid procedures/practices that follow appropriate measures. Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, you should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, along with a working knowledge of MRP or ERP systems. Physical Requirements: Ability to be on foot for long periods of time walking, crouching, bending, reaching and lifting. Frequent tasks using strength and manual dexterity. Ability to lift 50 lbs on a daily basis. Constant movement working with various industrial equipment and tools that require up close eye attention and concentration. Comfortable working in varying temperature environments including ambient, refrigerated (35–40°F), and frozen (-10°F to 0°F) areas. Machinery Requirements: Ability to obtain a forklift license and operate a forklift. Work Environment This position operates within an active food manufacturing and warehouse facility. The environment may involve exposure to food allergens including but not limited to tree nuts, milk, wheat, egg, peanuts, sesame and soy. Employees are required to wear appropriate PPE and follow all GMP requirements including hair nets, beard nets (where applicable), gloves, and clean clothing while in the Production areas. The work environment includes temperature-controlled areas, active machinery, and forklift traffic zones.