Optical Grader Technician

Job Title

Optical Grading Systems Operator / $28.00 per hour

Job Summary

The Optical Grading Systems Operator is responsible for operating, optimizing, and maintaining optical grading and sorting systems used in food processing and agricultural production. This role ensures that throughput, yield, and product quality specifications are consistently met through advanced equipment setup, calibration, and real-time system adjustments. The ideal candidate has strong technical aptitude and can read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.

Key Responsibilities

· Operate and optimize optical grading and sorting systems to meet production throughput,yield, and quality standards.

· Monitor sorter performance and product quality, adjusting defect detection parameters, size/color models, and reject logic in real time.

· Perform advanced system setup, calibration, and product changeovers for different products or specifications.

· Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to support equipment setup, troubleshooting, and adjustments.

· Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, software, and calibration issues related to optical sorting equipment.

· Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality Assurance, and OEM vendors to ensure optimal equipment performance and uptime.

· Maintain accurate production, quality, calibration, and maintenance documentation.

· Support operator training, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement initiatives.

· Follow all food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance standards.

Required Skills & Qualifications

· Strong mechanical and technical aptitude with automated production and inspection equipment.

· Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.

· Experience working in food processing, agriculture, or related manufacturing environments.

· Comfortable analyzing performance data and following detailed SOPs and work instructions.

· Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate production and calibration records.

· Effective communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented approach.

· Ability to work in fast-paced, high-volume, or seasonal production environments.

Preferred Skills & Experience

· Previous experience operating and optimizing optical grading or vision-based sorting systems.

· Knowledge of food safety standards, quality systems, and regulatory compliance.

· Hands-on troubleshooting experience with automated or electromechanical equipment.

· Experience supporting training or mentoring other operators.

Work Environment & Schedule

· Flexible shifts across multiple locations.

· Day Shift: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

· Night Shift: 6:00 PM – 4:00 AM

· Schedules may vary by location and production needs.

· Fast-paced food processing environment requiring prolonged standing, attention to detail, and adherence to safety and sanitation standards.

This is a Contract position based out of Royal City, WA.

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Royal City,WA.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 22, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.