1st Shift Machine Operator
Aphena Pharma Solutions
Summary
Aphena Pharma Solutions is a leading contract pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging company that provides comprehensive end-to-end solutions for the pharmaceutical, OTC, dietary supplement, animal health, and medical device markets. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Cookeville, Tennessee, the company operates two FDA- and DEA-registered facilities in the United States with over 762,000 square feet of manufacturing space. With more than 25 years of industry experience, Aphena specializes in contract packaging, repackaging, and manufacturing services, handling solid dose, liquids, gels, creams, ointments, foams, suspensions, and lotion-based products. The company serves as a strategic partner for pharmaceutical companies, offering capabilities in pharmaceutical serialization, track and trace systems, cold chain storage, and supply chain management. Aphena's commitment to quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and customer-centric project management has positioned it as a trusted provider in the contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) space, helping clients bring products to market efficiently while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Job description
What You'll Do
- Operate and maintain cutting-edge production machinery
- Troubleshoot and solve mechanical issues to keep production running smoothly
- Perform preventative maintenance and quality checks
- Adjust computerized settings for precision manufacturing
- Handle and stack raw materials and finished goods
- Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work area
What We're Looking For
- Problem-solvers who thrive in a hands-on, mechanical environment
- Team players with a strong work ethic and attention to detail
- Individuals eager to learn and work on FDA-regulated product lines
- Candidates with 1+ years of machine operator experience (preferred)
Job Skills – What You Bring to the Team
- Strong problem-solving skills—able to troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues (with support from Level 2 Operators or Mechanics)
- Eager to learn and grow in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
- Solid technical skills and knowledge with a hands-on approach
- Ability to read, write, and count accurately
- Open-minded and adaptable teamwork makes the dream work!
- Reliable attendance and punctuality are a must
- Comfortable working with FDA-regulated product lines (training provided!)
- Skilled in: Inventory counting & lot control, Multi-meter, measuring equipment, & hand tools, Reading blueprints, drawings, and electrical controls, Material handling equipment operation
- Clear and effective communication—able to take and give instructions quickly and accurately
Physical Requirements – What to Expect
- Lift and move materials up to 65 lbs (frequently carry up to 8 feet)
- Work in an environment with noise, dust, fumes, and odors
- Be comfortable with climbing, bending, kneeling, reaching, standing, pushing, pulling, twisting, and more
- Use required safety equipment (provided)
Personal Attributes – Who Thrives Here
- Energetic & self-motivated – You take initiative!
- Works well under pressure – Deadlines don't scare you
- Team player – You collaborate and communicate well
- Trustworthy & dependable – We count on you to get the job done
- Manages multiple priorities – You know how to stay organized
- Strong personal hygiene & professionalism – You represent Aphena!
Education & Experience – Your Background
- High School Diploma required (vocational training is a plus!)
- Machine Operator experience: 1+ years (preferred)
- Manufacturing experience: 2+ years (preferred)
- Mechanical knowledge or experience = $$$ (We compensate for your expertise!)
Work Schedule & Hours
- Monday – Thursday | 4 x 10-hour shifts (6:30 AM – 5:30 PM)
- Potential mandatory overtime on Fridays
- 40-hour workweek (schedule and workstation may change as needed)
Requirements
- High School Diploma required
- 1+ years of machine operator experience (preferred)
- 2+ years of manufacturing experience (preferred)
- Ability to lift and move materials up to 65 lbs
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to read, write, and count accurately
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Comfortable working with FDA-regulated product lines
- Skilled in inventory counting & lot control
- Skilled in multi-meter, measuring equipment, & hand tools
- Skilled in reading blueprints, drawings, and electrical controls
- Skilled in material handling equipment operation
- Clear and effective communication
Benefits
- 75% Company-Paid Medical Premiums
- Company Contribution Toward Medical Deductible
- Company-Paid Short-Term Disability & Life Insurance
- 401(k) Match
- PTO accrual after 90 Days
- Paid Holidays
Company overview
Aphena Pharma Solutions is a leading contract pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging company that provides comprehensive end-to-end solutions for the pharmaceutical, OTC, dietary supplement, animal health, and medical device markets. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Cookeville, Tennessee, the company operates two FDA- and DEA-registered facilities in the United States with over 762,000 square feet of manufacturing space. With more than 25 years of industry experience, Aphena specializes in contract packaging, repackaging, and manufacturing services, handling solid dose, liquids, gels, creams, ointments, foams, suspensions, and lotion-based products. The company serves as a strategic partner for pharmaceutical companies, offering capabilities in pharmaceutical serialization, track and trace systems, cold chain storage, and supply chain management. Aphena's commitment to quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and customer-centric project management has positioned it as a trusted provider in the contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) space, helping clients bring products to market efficiently while maintaining the highest quality standards.