POSITION SUMMARY: {#position-summary tabindex="-1"}

The Operator will properly carry out all duties as defined below under the Work Performed category. This person will be charged with correctly following all SOP guidelines related to this job. All work will be performed in a safe and sanitary manner. Duties include (but are not limited to): proper mixing of powdered products to meet customer defined specifications -- as measured by bulk density, particle size, customer liquification tests, and powder flow. Proper cleanup and sanitation of all equipment surfaces both during and after production are important job components. A thorough knowledge and understanding of all equipment and controls is necessary for successful qualification.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Properly and safely set up all operational parameters and related equipment prior to Production start-up as described in the SOP
• Properly operate all necessary equipment during production to maintain powder quality and consistency as defined by company specified requirements and SOP directions
• Properly and safely shut down the machinery and all related equipment as described in the SOP
• Properly clean all equipment associated with operations as described in the SOP; this includes a thorough knowledge of proper sanitation techniques to completely clean and sanitize all product contact surfaces
• Properly complete any provided checklists for operating and cleaning equipment
• Maintain peak operating efficiency of all equipment
• Maintain all associated work areas in a clean, neat, and dry manner during the entire shift
• Attend all company mandated training sessions -- these include Safety, Good Manufacturing Practices, etc.
• Consistently follows all Confined Space regulations
• Can correctly complete and submit work orders requiring a maintenance person
• Effectively performs all other duties as assigned or directed by plant management

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be 18 years of age
• Must have enough education to follow all written and oral instructions.
• Must be able to learn and master all necessary knowledge to maintain efficient and effective operation of all procedures and associated equipment.
• Must have mechanical knowledge and ability for minor equipment repairs and maintenance
• Must be self-disciplined, a team player, and be able to handle emergency situations common to the operation
• Must be able to maintain and display personal cleanliness and follow all GMP guidelines as required by the company and regulatory agencies
• Must be able to write clearly and in an organized fashion
• Must be able to reach an acceptable level of task proficiency within a 4-week training period
• Competency is determined by a Demonstration of Ability module conducted by the department Supervisor

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Hours are subject to change depending on production requirements
• Additional hours may be required
• During periods of equipment downtime, Operators are expected to perform maintenance on idle equipment, clean designated areas, or other assigned tasks
• Wet, slippery stairs and floors from ingredients and water solutions
• High noise areas present
• High speed moving parts and equipment
• Live steam and steam heated water
• Corrosive chemicals present - use of Personal Protective Equipment is required when handling chemicals
• Routine stair climbing
• Routine lifting of heavy weights
• Use of natural gas as the drying* *fuel
• Combustible dust