Job in a Nutshell:

The Relief Operator ensures seamless operations by providing expert coverage across production and sanitation teams during absences or temporary vacancies. Daily assignments are directed by the Department Supervisor or Team Lead to meet real-time staffing needs, requiring a high degree of adaptability. The ideal candidate is a proactive learner dedicated to supporting the team while actively developing the skills necessary for future leadership.

Applications are accepted by the date below, which may be updated if the hiring timeline is extended.
03/31/2026

Main Ingredients:

1. 1. Master and execute the responsibilities of all non-lead roles across both the production and sanitation departments.
   • Sets up and adjust processing and packaging lines to ensure daily operational readiness.
   • Convert raw materials into finished products in strict accordance with the production schedule.
   • Executes all required documentation for production and sanitation compliance
   • Upholds peak efficiency and accuracy across all machine operations and packaging stages
   • Audits labels and finished packaging to ensure total accuracy and quality standards.
   • Conducts routine cleaning, troubleshooting equipment, and corrective mechanical adjustments.
   • Facilitates the teardown and reassembly of complex packaging machinery.
   • Manages wash equipment and balers, including the systematic removal of waste and recyclables.
   • Utilizes electric pallet jacks and automated wrapping equipment for material movement.
   • Replenishes production lines consistently to ensure a steady flow of packaging materials.
   • Coordinates comprehensive pre-operational setups to prepare for the upcoming production week.
   • Performs all tasks in a manner that promotes safety of crew members
   1. Performs all tasks in compliance with Food Safety standards
   2. Adheres to all SSOP, Allergen, and HACCP protocols to ensure total compliance with safety and quality standards.
      
   While this outline covers core responsibilities, all team members are expected to maintain a "hands-on" approach, contributing flexibly to any task required to ensure operational excellence and the company’s continued growth.

Recipe for Success:

1. 1. High School diploma, GED or equivalent experience is required
   2. Minimum 2 years’ recent experience in operating food production machinery preferred
   3. Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices in food production preferred
   4. Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions as provided
   5. Must be able to meet daily and weekly deadlines
   6. Must have good attention to detail, including accuracy and thoroughness
   7. Basic computer skills required; working knowledge of production systems required
   8. Must have strong written and verbal communication skills
   9. Must be team-oriented and flexible to changing demands
   10. Ability to work with others in a fast-paced team environment
   11. Must be reliable and on time every day
   12. Able to work in seasonally warm or cool environment
   13. Ability to obtain NGVC certification electric pallet jack

    

   This job description is not an employment contract.  It does not guarantee a job or that the above listed duties are the limit of responsibilities.  The job and job description are subject to change with and without notice.  Employees are required to accomplish any and all tasks assigned to him/her by their manager and/or other Store Support Center manager that might not be listed in this job description.

Here’s an overview of the benefits we offer our good4u Crew to help ensure the health and wellbeing of you and your family, now and well into the future:

All Crew Members

• Birthday Bonus Pay 
• Vitamin Bucks (up to $2,080 earned as store credit annually) 
• Holiday Pay for 5 Holidays – Stores Closed
• Paid Time Off (sick days and vacation) that Increases with Tenure 
• Paid Nutrition Education 
• good4u Crew Member Discount  
• {N}power Program (customer appreciation and rewards program) 
• Regular, Scheduled Pay Increases  
• Advancement Opportunities and Career Development 
• Health and Wellness Program  
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)   
• Employee Referral Program

Full-Time Crew Members (30+ hours/week)

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance 
• Paid Parental Leave  
• Paid Medical Leave (through company paid short-term disability insurance) 
• Company Paid Short-Term Disability Insurance  
• Company Paid Life Insurance 
• Voluntary Benefits Including Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, Term Life Insurance   
• Retirement Savings Plan (401k) with discretionary Company Match  
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)  
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with Company Match 

Diversity Statement

At the heart of Natural Grocers' commitment to our community and crew is this belief: All people should be empowered to experience health and wellbeing! We cannot be true to this conviction without honoring diversity and cultivating inclusion throughout every aspect of our organization.

At Natural Grocers, we honor our differences, embrace diversity, and cultivate inclusion because both individual and societal health are rooted in these principles. Our Crew is diverse not only in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, abilities, and age but also in cultural backgrounds, thoughts, and ideas. Celebrating our diversity refreshes, expands, and shapes our perspective, energizing our mission of equitable access to health and wellness for all. We welcome everyone who would like to join us in this mission, with gratitude for the unique life experience each person brings to the table. We’re committed to nurturing an ecosystem of diversity and inclusion in which our Crew can continue to thrive.

Physical Capabilities and Environmental Demands:

Physical and Environmental Demands:                              

N = Never

O = Occasional; 1-33% of time

F = Frequent; 34-66% of time

C = Constant; 67-100% of time

Physical Requirements:

Must have the ability to occasionally lift or carry up to 50 lbs.

Must have the ability to occasionally push or pull up to 30 lbs.

Must be able to constantly use the computer for data entry and use of mouse.

Must be able to constantly sit, use fine motor manipulations, and reach outward for the duration of the work shift.

Must be able to frequently grip, bend, twist, and turn.

Must be able to occasionally walk, stand, squat, kneel, and reach above chest as needed.

Environmental Requirements:

Must be able to work occasionally with cold, heat, sharp tools and equipment, noise, contact stress, dust, fumes, and congested worksite.