Automation Technician

At Freeman Herbs, we inspire food experiences through fresh, high-quality potted herbs and food products. Rooted in humility and authenticity, we are committed to excellence in everything we grow and do. Our team thrives on creativity, innovation, positivity, and having fun while working together. Every day, we strive to make a meaningful impact on our employees, families, customers, and communities - and we are always looking for motivated team players to grow with us and help bring our core focus and values to life.

The Automated Packaging Line Lead is responsible for overseeing the operation and performance of a state-of-the-art robotic packaging line within our distribution center. This role ensures efficient, accurate, and safe product handling while supporting managing manual packaging operations. The successful candidate will combine strong technical aptitude with leadership skills to drive productivity, optimize processes, and maintain quality standards.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead daily operations of the robotic packaging line.
• Provide hands-on troubleshooting and problem resolution for automation and mechanical systems.
• Monitor and optimize throughput and system performance.
• Manage computer vision grading system parameters according to operational and customer requirements.
• Conduct quality assurance checks and ensure compliance with customer requirements.
• Manage safety issues and proactively and enforce safety standards.
• Reduce downtime, changeover time, and overtime costs.
• Support the DC Supervisor in manual packaging operations as needed.
• Manage staff allocation and process optimization.
• Identify and eliminate production bottlenecks.
• Monitor output to ensure targets and service levels are met.
• Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for robotic packaging line operation, preventative maintenance, servicing, and changeovers.
• Collaborate with sales, maintenance, and operations teams to continuously improve packaging processes, minimize labour, and maintain high product quality.
• Conduct time studies of packaging operations to inform strategic product offering and pricing decisions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education:

• A post-secondary degree or diploma in a relevant field such as Automation or Mechanical Engineering Technology, or Supply Chain Management is preferred.

Experience:

• Experience in a related position involving horticulture, produce packaging, or food manufacturing an asset
• Previous supervisory experience, preferably in automated manufacturing or distribution, with proven technical proficiency in automation systems.
• Proficiency in ERP or CRM systems; prior experience in inventory and order management is an asset.
• Experience in a manufacturing or distribution setting is an asset.

Skills:

• Strong proficiency in operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation and mechanical systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate, coach, and direct a small team.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Excel and automation system control software.
• Spanish language proficiency is an asset.
• Familiarity with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and organic certification requirements is an asset.

We thank all candidates for their interest however only those candidates chosen for an interview will be contacted.

At Freeman Herbs, we are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environment. Please advise the Human Resources Department if you require accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection processes and/or within the work environment. Information received for accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.