JOB SUMMARY: Production Operator will safely control various machines and equipment involved in production. The operator supports upstream processing as well as occasional projects/support to include processes monitoring and sampling, routine sample analysis. The operator ensures that production is running according to a daily and weekly plan. Operators are tasked with setting up, monitoring, and maintaining machines and equipment used in production lines. Opening is for various shifts and production departments.

SKILLS, TRAITS, & COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to follow directions and work well in a team

• Ability to interpret and translate engineering designs and documentation

• Thorough understanding of or the ability to quickly learn production equipment

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates production machinery in accordance with prints and specifications

• Maintains production logs and records

• Assist supervisor to ensure the department complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control (HACCP) and Safe Quality Foods (SQF)

• Works safely and ensures the department complies with all safety rules

• Carry out microbial analysis according to batch records using good sterile technique

• Ongoing utilization and monitoring of equipment and process control systems to ensure parameters are within specified operating ranges

• Performs minor mechanical and instrumentation troubleshooting; takes appropriate corrective action as needed.

• Complete daily batch records and enter fermentation data into databases

• Contacts supervisor, QC or R&D for guidance in the event of unplanned deviations; follows guidance and direction accordingly

• Complete basic lab procedures ensuring accuracy and validity of results. Assist with general laboratory procedures including but not limited to preparation of solvents, buffers, resins, reagent solutions, media prep; measuring and dispensing of solid and liquid chemicals and raw materials

• Cleaning and sterilization of equipment, instruments, materials and processing areas

• Executes on various projects developed by R&D

• Performs housekeeping tasks as assigned per GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)

• Other duties as assigned or required

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• At least one year of related experience required

• Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities, and make decisions with general guidance and supervision

• Working knowledge, skills, and ability to understand, interpret and assess FDA, Food and Plant Safety, product, process and quality-related requirements and to ensure adherence to all HACCP protocols, GMPs and SOPs

• Relevant knowledge of equipment, process and production capabilities

• Experience using ERP / MES / MRP / Shop Manufacturing Systems a plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Repetitive lifting 50 to 60 pounds

• Climbing stairs and ladders

• Prolonged standing and walking

• Repetitive bending, twisting and kneeling

• Visual acuity to read instructions, operate machines, and inspect product

• Ability to work in high-temperature environments

• Ability to tolerate prolonged heat

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance on Day 1

• Health and Wellness Incentives

• 10 Days of PTO

• 10 Paid Company Holidays

• 5 Personal Days

• 401(k)

• Health Savings Account (H.S.A.)

• Long-Term and Short-Term Disability

• Life Insurance

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)