Job Summary:
The Packaging Line Technical Specialist will provide technical guidance, coaching, and training to Setup Tech Operators and Packaging Operators and serve as the technical expert on the packaging floor, supporting equipment setup, startup, troubleshooting, operational optimization, and changeover execution while also contributing directly to production operations as needed.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
The Packaging Line Technical Specialist will not have direct reports but will work closely with Learning & Development group, Shift Supervisors, Operators and set-up techs to identify and address skills development opportunities within the packaging team.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Training & Technical Development
- Support development of operator technical skills and equipment knowledge.
- Assist in creation and revision of SOPs, Work Instructions, Job Aids, and training materials.
- Coach operators on proper setup, startup, troubleshooting, and operational techniques.
- Reinforce cGMP, GDP, safety, and compliance expectations through daily execution.
- Develop training materials and standard work documents to ensure consistent execution amongst all packaging teams.
- Complete training for packaging personnel ensuring details of what to do and why is included.
- Partner with Shift supervisors to assess training opportunities for employees and create development plans.
• Provide regular trainee progress reports and status updates.
• Utilizes “Prep-Show-Do-Check” training method for instruction.
- Present management updates on progress and action plans.
- Optimize changeover process and train employees on related documents and lessons learned.
Execution (Daily) Process
Equipment Setup & Technical Support
- Perform packaging line setup, startup, changeovers, and operational adjustments.
- Troubleshoot and resolve equipment, process, and line performance issues during production.
- Monitor equipment performance and proactively identify opportunities to improve uptime, throughput, and efficiency.
- Support line optimization activities to improve operational performance and reduce downtime.
- Assist with equipment adjustments, mechanical troubleshooting, and startup readiness activities.
- Partner with Manufacturing, Packaging, Engineering, Quality, and Technical Services to resolve technical issues efficiently.
- Support execution of equipment trials, validations, exhibit batches, and new product introductions.
Production Operations
- Operate packaging equipment and support production activities as business needs require.
- Work directly alongside operators and supervisors to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution.
- Assist operators during startup, troubleshooting, and operational recovery situations.
- Support shift teams during staffing shortages, production surges, and operational transitions.
- Help establish and reinforce standardized setup and operating practices across shifts.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve setup execution, changeovers, line flow, equipment reliability, and operational consistency.
- Support implementation of process improvements and standard work initiatives.
- Track effectiveness of implemented improvements and recommend additional optimization opportunities.
- Share lessons learned and best practices with production teams.
- Participate in operational excellence initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and efficiency.
Compliance & Documentation
- Follow all company policies, SOPs, Work Instructions, cGMPs, GDP standards, and safety requirements.
- Ensure production documentation and batch records are completed accurately and completely.
- Escalate deviations, equipment concerns, and operational risks appropriately.
- Maintain inspection-ready standards within assigned manufacturing areas. Ch
- Champion safe work practices and operational discipline at all times.
Required Skills & Abilities
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting capability.
- Ability to identify and resolve equipment and process-related issues in a manufacturing environment.
- Comfortable working directly on the production floor in a hands-on operational role.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to influence and support peers and operators without direct authority.
- Positive attitude with willingness to learn, adapt, and support business needs.
- Ability to balance technical responsibilities with operational execution.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and compliance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience operating, setting up, troubleshooting, or optimizing manufacturing or packaging equipment.
- Experience in pharmaceutical, food, medical device, consumer products, or other regulated manufacturing environments preferred.
- Knowledge of high-speed packaging equipment and changeover processes preferred.
- Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives preferred.
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Technical training, trade school education, military technical experience, or manufacturing experience preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of manufacturing, packaging, operations, maintenance, or technical equipment experience preferred.
- Equivalent combinations of education, technical aptitude, and hands-on manufacturing experience will be considered.
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of standing. Kneeling and climbing ladders will be required.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
- To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. PAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, PAI will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. PAI uses E-Verify.
Benefits:
Excellent benefits including On-Site Wellness Clinic, health, dental, vision, STD/LTD, and life insurance, HSA with employer contribution, 401(k) and Roth 401k, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Cigna Plans: Accident – Cancer – Critical Illness, paid holidays and PTO. Excellent compensation package pending experience and qualifications.
About PAI:
PAI Pharma has been at the forefront of producing better-targeted suspensions, oral solutions, elixirs, syrups, and liquids for nearly 50 years. PAI Pharma's mission is to participate in the creation of healthier lives by exceeding the expectations of those we serve with innovative treatments.
PAI Pharma has an extensive product portfolio including over the counter and prescription solutions, elixirs, syrups, and semi-solids. To meet the unique needs of retail chains and independent pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities and government agencies, PAI Pharma offers standard bottle packaging and ready-to-dispense unit-dose packaging.
PAI Pharma also develops original formulations and new drug delivery systems governed by a strict quality validation process. We strive to offer more user-friendly formulations in more enticing flavors. Our core strength is in pharmaceutical ingredients, dosage form, and analytical chemistry of generic medicines and wellness products.
PAI Pharma is a nicotine-free campus, meaning the use of nicotine products—including cigarettes, vaping, chewing tobacco, and any other nicotine-containing substances—is strictly prohibited on company property. All employees should be able to complete their full shift without the need to use nicotine. By joining PAI Pharma, you agree to adhere to our nicotine-free workplace policy, which supports a healthier environment for all employees.
EEO Employer / Veteran / Disabled