Hat Steaming & Product Preparation Associate

This is a detail-oriented position requiring a dependable associate to steam, shape, inspect, and prepare straw hats and similar products for sale or shipment.

This is a hands-on, physically active position requiring excellent hand coordination, precision, and attention to detail. The associate will learn specialized hat-steaming and shaping techniques to ensure products meet our clients' standards for quality, appearance, and presentation.

This opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys physical, hands-on work, takes pride in doing things correctly, and appreciates a consistent daytime work schedule. The position also offers opportunities to be cross-trained in other aspects of warehouse operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Steam hats using approved equipment and methods to remove creases, restore shape, and improve product appearance.
• Shape and adjust hat crowns and brims by hand or with designated hat forms, following client specifications.
• Apply controlled hand pressure when manipulating delicate straw materials to avoid crushing or deforming products.
• Allow hats to dry and set properly before further handling or packaging.
• Inspect products for damage, discoloration, uneven shaping, loose stitching, and other visible defects.
• Complete detailed finishing tasks, including removing loose threads, checking tags, and adjusting hat bands or decorative trim.
• Sort, count, label, and package finished products according to client instructions.
• Read and follow product labels, specifications, and written instructions to ensure accurate handling of similar-looking merchandise.
• Handle delicate materials carefully to prevent product damage.
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and follow established procedures when working with steam and heated equipment.
• Meet daily production and quality expectations while maintaining accuracy and consistency.
• Identify and report products requiring additional attention or corrective work.
• Participate in cross-training and perform other warehouse-related responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Required Qualifications
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to identify subtle differences in product appearance, shape, and quality.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to perform precise, repetitive hand movements.
• Ability to work carefully and consistently with delicate products.
• Sufficient English language proficiency to read and understand written instructions, product labels, and product-specific information in English.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and approved product samples.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately while meeting established production expectations.
• Dependability, punctuality, and commitment to maintaining a consistent work schedule.
• Willingness to learn specialized hat-steaming and shaping techniques and become cross-trained in other warehouse functions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a production team.
• Aligned with Bergen’s How We Work Together Principles including: investing in People Development, creating a Safe Environment, treating others with Respect, being able to work as part of a Team, having Trust in others, having Passion for our work and clients, having good Communication skills and having high Accountability for oneself and others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in warehouse operations, apparel finishing, garment steaming, product preparation, or quality inspection.
• Experience handling delicate merchandise or performing detailed hands-on work.
• Familiarity with handheld steaming equipment or similar finishing tools.
• Previous hat-steaming experience is preferred but not required. Training will be provided.
• Physical Requirements and Work Environment
• This position requires the ability to perform detailed, repetitive, hands-on product preparation activities in a warehouse or production environment.
• Standing and Mobility
• Stand and work at a designated workstation for extended periods, potentially throughout most of an eight-hour shift, with scheduled breaks.
• Walk between steaming, shaping, drying, inspection, and packaging stations as needed.
• Bend, stoop, and reach to retrieve hats, tools, materials, and packaging supplies from work surfaces, shelving, or storage containers.
• Hand Dexterity and Fine Motor Skills
• Perform precise, controlled movements with fingers, hands, and wrists to shape delicate straw hats without damaging the material.
• Use both hands simultaneously to hold, rotate, manipulate, and reshape hat crowns and brims.
• Apply controlled and consistent finger and hand pressure to adjust product shape while avoiding crushing or deforming straw materials.
• Perform repetitive gripping, pinching, smoothing, pressing, and rotating motions throughout the workday.
• Manipulate small items such as tags, fasteners, hat bands, decorative trim, and loose threads.
• Operate handheld steaming equipment and other approved finishing tools safely and accurately.
• Upper Body Movement and Coordination
• Perform frequent, repetitive wrist, hand, and forearm movements during steaming, shaping, inspection, and packaging.
• Extend arms forward and reach across work surfaces to position products and operate equipment.
• Maintain sufficient hand-eye coordination to direct steam accurately and control the positioning of hats during shaping.
• Hold and maneuver steaming equipment for repeated work cycles while maintaining control of its movement and positioning.
• Visual Inspection and Attention to Detail
• Visually examine hats at close range to identify creases, discoloration, uneven brims, damaged straw, loose stitching, and other product imperfections.
• Distinguish subtle variations in product shape, texture, alignment, and appearance against approved product samples.
• Inspect small finishing details, labels, tags, and decorative components to ensure accurate placement and presentation.
• Maintain visual concentration during repetitive quality inspection and product preparation activities.
• Lifting and Material Handling
• Occasional lifting and/or moving of objects up to 30lbs.- 50lbs with team support as needed.
• Lift, carry, position, and move individual hats, small product batches, and cartons of supplies.
• Move boxes and packaging materials between workstations, shelving, and designated storage areas.
• Push or pull lightweight carts containing products or supplies, when required.
• Use appropriate material-handling equipment or assistance for heavier or bulky items.
• Environmental and Equipment Exposure
• Work in proximity to steam, moisture, hot surfaces, and heated equipment.
• Follow established safety procedures to minimize the risk of burns, contact injuries, and product damage.
• Safely operate steaming equipment while maintaining control of the product and tools.
• Perform repetitive production activities in a warehouse or product-finishing environment.
• Maintain the physical coordination and attention necessary to handle delicate products and heated equipment safely.
• Work Schedule and Attendance
• Full-time position with a consistent Monday–Friday daytime schedule.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential to meeting daily production requirements.
• Access to reliable transportation.
• Candidates must be able to report to the assigned work location consistently and on time.
• Employees may be cross-trained and assigned to other warehouse functions based on operational needs.