Machine Operator

Function

This position is responsible for the set up, operation, clean up, and general maintenance of the equipment associated with the packing of the product. Entry level encouraged to apply.

Required Skills

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic mechanical failures.
• Safe operation of powered industrial trucks with training.
• Ability to legibly and accurately complete records.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to delegate responsibility and interact professionally with other team members.
• Reading, writing, and basic math competency.
• Four to six weeks of on-the-job training to obtain job’s base skill level.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent bending – squatting – kneeling
• Frequent climbing on Processor Ladders
• Exposure to strong cleaning chemicals + wet environments
• Heavy lifting up to 60 lbs
• Standing for long periods of time
• Lifting over shoulder level
• Exposure to noisy environments
• Frequent hose operation (gripping)
• Repetitive wrist and hand movement (twisting clamps)

Organizational Relationships

Reports to the Production Supervisor and coordinates with: Managers, General Laborers, Cheesemakers and Maintenance Technicians.

Responsibilities

• Operate production line equipment including packers, positive pumps, processors, coders, weight scales, metal detectors, labelers and terlotherm to mix and pack retail branded and private label products.
• Confirm production schedule and product specifications with Supervisor and set up equipment for production including setting up tanks, assembling positive pumps, ingredient feeders and all other necessary equipment, set up labelers, installing heat seal and any other necessary packaging, preparing packer for operation by sanitizing equipment, turning on heaters and nitrogen, and any other necessary set up adjustments.
• Confirm pH testing with Supervisor and assist him/her by releasing cheese from the processor into the lines, turning on fillers, adding ingredients, and packing bulk and retail product.
• Must train new hires in all aspects of the Machine Operator position.
• Clean and sanitize equipment and work area between flavors, as necessary, and at end of production including emptying system, spraying equipment with iodine, filling flavor clean-up tank with iodine water, flushing lines, picking up and storing unused supplies, and rinsing the floor.
• Inspect product for specification making any necessary adjustments to packer, labels, weights, heat seal, and dates as well as stopping production and reporting to the Supervisor any product that does not meet specifications.
• Inspect equipment on a routine basis and report any malfunctions or wear and tear to Supervisor and Maintenance Technicians immediately. Adhere to and help communicate company safety policies such as locking and tagging equipment, inspecting and using machine guards, reporting accidental spills, etc.
• Perform all duties in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures, HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) Guidelines, Good Manufacturing Practices, safety policies, and other company policies.
• Assist team in improving quality and efficiency through continual development of operational techniques that minimize product and packaging waste and maximizes product quality.
• Assist Supervisor in building a strong team taking responsibility for production crew during Supervisor’s absence or upon request and performing other duties on the line as necessary.
• Perform other responsibilities as necessary to contribute to the company goal of providing our customers with cost-effective, super-premium products and outstanding customer service.
• Responsible for Retail weight control and assisting the Supervisor in meeting or exceeding Production Line yield goals.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 – $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Night shift

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: One location