Downstream Production Plant Operator

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Downstream Operator is responsible for monitoring, cleaning, and ensuring the quality of the product being produced by

equipment. This person will be responsible for a clean and safe environment for themselves, fellow employees, and

visitors.

• Operate processing and packaging equipment with an emphasis on quality.
• Follow all guidelines for work safety and good manufacturing practices.
• Follow all food safety and hygiene policies.
• Conduct and record product quality control tests.
• Laboratory analysis.
• Basic maintenance and repairs on DSP equipment.
• Maintains accurate production documentation with close attention to detail, as required.
• Maintain a clean work environment by ensuring there are no pellets or debris on the floor or machines, and that all tools and equipment are in the proper location.
• Manually handles, repacks, or restacks pallets of finished product as needed.
• Operates forklift as needed.
• Documents all related activities and completes forms and reports.
• Performs other related duties as directed.

Experience, Education, and Licensure/Certification Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid state motor vehicle operator’s license preferred.
• 1-year high school chemistry; college introductory chemistry preferred.
• Analytical experience preferred but not required (pH, HPLC, Spectro).
• Forklift Certification or the ability to acquire the skills for forklift certification.
• At least two years of work experience in a production plant is preferred.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• The individual must be able to work cohesively as part of a team.
• Computer Proficient; able to run Windows and Microsoft Applications, such as Word and Excel.
• Ability to work all shifts and overtime as required.
• Ability to work in a productive and safe manner with limited supervision and direction.
• Must maintain a good attitude and be professional daily.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Basic understanding of or ability to quickly learn company product codes and terminology.
• Thorough understanding of good manufacturing processes.
• Must be able to read and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Good analytical skills and ability to make sound judgments.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
• Ability to perform repetitive and physically demanding tasks for extended periods (lifting, walking, working at heights, climbing, pushing, pulling, twisting, and stooping).
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced, loud, and labor-intensive environment in variable temperatures (from outdoor heat to indoor refrigerated coolers).
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.