ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Machine Operators perform a range of duties from setup, alignment, setting controls, test runs, setting gauges or measurements, selecting pre-set programs, checking weights, ensuring proper label placement, sealing, cuts, etc. in accordance with product specifications and food safety requirements.

Job Description:

• Prepares machine for startup of production and oversees daily operation in compliance with safe operating procedures.
• Participates in product test runs as needed.
• Monitors product flow, production speeds, and machine settings, alignment, tooling, and controls to produce the highest quality production that meets specifications and food safety requirements.

• Responsible for paying special attention to abnormal sounds or appearances coming from the machine and taking proper action.

• May troubleshoot machinery issues to determine is adjustment or maintenance is needed.
• Applies and follows all company safety policies including lockout, tag out, and other OSHA regulations.
• Maintains a sanitary work environment, ensures changeovers are completed timely with the proper equipment and machinery.
• Adheres to all good manufacturing practices and food safety policies including the company's CCP's.
• Identifies any foreign objects that may break the machine or put the product at risk. Such items could relate to packaging, seeds, agriculture waste, plastics, metals or other foreign body objects.
• Identifies and reports any broken parts on the machine such as sensors, rollers, blades, etc.. May initiate Maintenance service requests.
• Turns off the main power source at the end of the day or when the machine is not in use in compliance with safe operating procedures.
• Responsible for paying special attention to abnormal sounds or appearances coming from the machine and taking proper action to maintain machinery in good working order.
• Performs proper blade checks on the machine every two hours throughout the workday and takes proper action.
• May support production Associates with changeovers and other routine tasks when the line is operating.
• Notifies management when preventive maintenance is needed.
• Routinely communicates with the Maintenance and Operations teams to keep everyone informed of an equipment down for repair.

Assists with other tasks pertaining to production as needed.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent education.
• 1 year General Mechanical experience and aptitude preferred
• Demonstrated experience of a variety of machinery used in a manufacturing plant or similar environment
• Ability to setup and startup machinery, identify worn parts, and sounds that equipment makes
• Knowledge of basic mechanical equipment operations and food safety
• Experience working in a chilled food factory or related environment is preferred
• Good knowledge and understanding of food safety work practices common chilled food production
• Bilingual (Spanish / English) helpful
• Ability to work at a rapid pace under pressure while maintaining a positive disposition
• Ability to perform tasks requiring heavy repetitive motion and ergonomics

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions and complete precision tasks

• Ability to read, comprehend and speak professionally with team members
• Must have basic mathematical skills to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure

• Knowledge of applying common mechanical processes, conveyer systems, and food safety procedures

• Ability to work in a cold/ damp environment for extended periods
• Must have strong interpersonal and employee relation skills

Pay Range

• The base hourly wage we reasonably expect to pay for this role is: $13.50
• New hires start at $13.50
• The actual hourly wage for this role will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s skills and experience.
• Please note that base pay is one important aspect of a compelling Total Rewards package. The base pay range indicated here does not include any additional benefits or cash bonuses you may be eligible for based on your role and/or employment type.

WORK DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this Job work is primarily performed in a chilled environment or maintenance shop. Regularly required to stand, walk, squat, stoop, bend, reach, talk or hear. Required to use hands and fingers finger, handle, lift, feel, push or pull objects. Lifting up to 50 lbs of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs of force frequently. Often required to lift and carry 10 lbs force constantly to move objects. Exposed to chilled or warm temperatures within the operation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Calavo Growers is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment of Any Kind: Calavo is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Calavo are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social, or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Calavo will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.