What are the responsibilities and job description for the Feedmill Operator position at Florida's Natural Growers?
FEED MILL OPERATOR
Location: Lake Wales, FL
Position: Full-Time | Shift: Dayshift
Job Title: Feed Mill Operator
Department: Processing BU
Pay: $21.32 to $23.70 per hour, based on qualifications
Summary:
The machine operator is responsible to operate, maintain, and clean all equipment within his area. Operators will cross train to perform all positions and rotate positions in the department as needed. This role plays a critical part in ensuring product consistency, safety, and efficiency within the fruit processing business unit. The ideal candidate has a strong attention to detail, follows safety protocols, and works well in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with a high-level proficiency in multitasking.
This position reports to a production supervisor or department leadership.
Essential functions:
Location: Lake Wales, FL
Position: Full-Time | Shift: Dayshift
Job Title: Feed Mill Operator
Department: Processing BU
Pay: $21.32 to $23.70 per hour, based on qualifications
Summary:
The machine operator is responsible to operate, maintain, and clean all equipment within his area. Operators will cross train to perform all positions and rotate positions in the department as needed. This role plays a critical part in ensuring product consistency, safety, and efficiency within the fruit processing business unit. The ideal candidate has a strong attention to detail, follows safety protocols, and works well in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with a high-level proficiency in multitasking.
This position reports to a production supervisor or department leadership.
Essential functions:
- Operate, maintain, and clean all equipment in the area such as front-end loader, lime/dryers, evaporator/s and pellet mill/s.
- Operators must be able to learn how to perform all positions and rotate positions as needed.
- Perform pre-operational and post-operational equipment checks and sanitation.
- Perform daily and weekly cleanups and equipment lubrication as needed.
- Ensure that all SOP, SSOP, GMP, and HACCP procedures are followed.
- Collect samples and perform daily tests as required.
- Record data pertaining to production, safety and quality in production logs or electronic systems.
- Perform mathematical calculations using flow rates, time, temperature, and percentages.
- Follow instructions and work with minimal supervision.
- Use high level of mechanical aptitude that will facilitate trouble shooting and problem solving of equipment.
- Communicate and cooperate with team members, other departments and management in a cordial and respectful way.
- Strive to meet production goals.
- Be an active member of our company safety program.
- Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).
- Communicate any discrepancies or equipment malfunctions to department leaders.
- Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and personal protective equipment requirements.
- Adhere to safety protocols, including proper lifting techniques and forklift safety procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Assist in other areas of production and give breaks as needed.
- Regular attendance required.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Must pass Basic Skills Assessments
- Must pass FNGs Mechanical Aptitude Test
- Previous experience in a food or beverage manufacturing environment preferred.
- Previous Feed Mill machine operator and citrus experience preferred.
- Truck driving experience or Class "A" CDL preferred.
- Waste Heat Evaporator experience preferred.
- Basic math skills
- Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, and food safety regulations a plus.
- Ability to operate forklifts is a plus (training may be provided).
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
- Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull materials and products weighing up to 55 pounds, occasional team lifts for heavier items.
- Stand, walk or sit for extended periods (8–12 hours per shift).
- Regular bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching overhead, and twisting while handling inventory or stocking shelves.
- Frequent use of hands and arms for material handling, scanning, labeling, and operating tools or equipment.
- Occasional use of ladders or step stools to access high storage areas and frequent use of stairs.
- Visual acuity required for reading labels, operating machinery, and working with digital scanners; hearing required for equipment alarms, communication with team members, and safety awareness.
- Follow all GMP practices, and food safety regulations.
- Work may involve exposure to varying temperatures (hot or cold), dust, noise, and occasional fumes, depending on the manufacturing setting.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection may be required.
Salary : $21 - $24