Key Performance Areas (Essential Functions of the Position)

• Operates the machines at the main control panel and observes the production process making necessary adjustments to control the rate of production.
• Monitors operation to identify equipment malfunctions or abnormal operating conditions.
• Inspects hay throughout the manufacturing operation to identify conditions that could affect product quality and ensures that final product conforms to Standlee Premium Western Forage specifications.
• Performs routine inspections and preventive maintenance on all production equipment to identify unsafe conditions, defects or needed repairs.
• Reports and regularly communicates to management, maintenance staff and crew members, unsafe conditions, defective equipment or equipment in need of repairs, equipment malfunctions or abnormal operating conditions.
• Delegates work assignments to the press crew, sets expectations and monitors delegated activities.
• Maintains work areas and equipment in a clean orderly condition and assists coworkers with cleanup and housekeeping activities.
• Assistscrew members and those in other operations to successfully perform job tasks and functions when necessary to meet production goals and prevent down time.
• All Standlee Hay Company employees are required to use considerable judgment when performing and planning to perform his/her tasks. They are also expected to adhere to company safety standards and ensure all actions are consistent with our company’s values, mission and strategic business objectives.

Key Success Factors for Position

• General knowledge of equipment and machinery used in manufacturing or processing hay.
• Must be able to identify basic mechanical components of production equipment, carry out daily inspections and perform preventative maintenance tasks such as lubricating, and cleaning.
• The ability to maintain equipment, recognize defects, unsafe conditions or needed repairs and resolve issues before they become problematic impacting employee safety and production.
• Must have thorough understanding of the production / manufacturing process and the ability to identify equipment malfunctions and abnormal operating conditions.
• Must be able to observe production processes and equipment while simultaneously operating a control panel and monitoring a computer screen (PLC User Interface).
• Working knowledge of hazards and safety precautions associated with manufacturing equipment and Standlee Hay Company’s production operations.
• Ability to exercise good judgment when carrying out duties and maintain good working relationships with the public and fellow employees.
• The ability to work as directed, alone and unsupervised when required or with others as part of a team.
• Must be able to tactfully delegate work assignments, monitor work activities and motivate crew members to perform well
• Basic mathematical abilities and capable of remembering words, numbers and other information.
• Must be able to read, identify colors, symbols, understand and apply information shown on process flow diagrams, computer screens (PLC User Interface), and obtained from customer orders, operator manuals and written job procedures.
• Basic computer skills and ability to understand / correlate system logic and computer applications with production operations.
• Must be able to accurately complete checklists, production reports and other paperwork as required.
• Must be able to classify various types of alfalfa / hay and identify questionable conditions or defects which could negatively impact product quality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced work environment, manage multiple tasks and priorities and easily adapt to changing situations.
• Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency.

Business Impact

• Operation of equipment valued in excess of $5M

 Experiences / Education Requirements

• Employee must have good work habits.
• Must have prior experience or on the job training.
• Must have minimum of high school diploma or GED
• Some college or vocational school preferred.

Working Conditions

This job is regularly performed inside the plant and occasionally outside in the surrounding grounds and facilities. Because of this, Press Operators are frequently exposed to adverse weather conditions including extreme heat and cold. Lighting varies based on the season, weather and conditions in the plant. Employees regularly work near moving mechanical parts, material handling equipment and are exposed to ergonomic hazards, noise and dust.

Physical Requirements:

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

While performing the duties of the job the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, read, write and communicate in fluent English. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms. 

Professional Conduct

Each employee of Standlee Premium Western Forage has a responsibility to know, to understand and to abide by Workplace Professional Standards of Conduct. Professional Conduct includes: Customer Service, Courtesy, Ethics, Safety, Teamwork, Responsibility, Accountability, Confidentiality, and Professionalism.

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel to local Standlee locations (by vehicle.