Production Operator, 1st Shift

Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages, dietary supplements, and pet food. With over 140 years of expertise, we believe nature got it right the first time. Join our fast-growing, international team and help us make natural, healthy food accessible worldwide.

Company: Oterra
Location: Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin
Department: Production
Shift: As assigned

Job Summary

Oterra is seeking a dependable and safety-conscious Production Operator to support manufacturing operations by producing, processing, and packaging high-quality color products. Under close supervision, the Production Operator operates and maintains production equipment, prepares materials, follows mixing and blending recipes, and ensures finished products meet established quality specifications.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, follows safety and sanitation procedures, and works collaboratively with Production and Quality Control teams to maintain efficient operations. Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, assemble, disassemble, operate, adjust, and clean production equipment used for blending, filling, processing, and packaging color products.

• Locate, prepare, transfer, and load raw materials and other ingredients for production.

• Move work-in-process (WIP) and finished products to filling stations, additional processing areas, storage, or shipping.

• Prepare packaging materials, including drums, pails, and boxes, and print and apply product labels.

• Collect product samples and deliver them to the Quality Control (QC) laboratory for testing.

• Work with QC technicians and supervisors to make necessary process adjustments to ensure products meet specifications.

• Complete required production paperwork and enter accurate information into production, laboratory, and inventory records.

• Follow production recipes, work instructions, and applicable SAP processes.

• Maintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), quality standards, sanitation requirements, and all company safety procedures.

• Communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors regarding production progress, product quality, and process concerns.

Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Previous manufacturing or production experience preferred.

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

• Basic mathematical skills, including the ability to calculate and convert weights and volumes using the metric system.

• Ability to read and follow recipes and instructions for mixing and blending products.

• Ability to operate a forklift.

• Familiarity with basic hand tools, including hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches, for equipment assembly and disassembly.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.

• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with team members.

• Willingness and ability to learn and use required SAP functions.

Working Conditions

This position operates in a manufacturing environment with frequent exposure to wet, humid, dusty, or noisy conditions; moving machinery; airborne particles or fumes; and caustic chemicals.

Employees must wear a company-issued uniform and required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. PPE may include coveralls, dust masks, hearing protection, hair and beard nets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes.

Some work may take place in small rooms requiring compliance with airlock procedures to prevent cross-contamination between departments.

Physical Requirements

The Production Operator must be able to perform the following essential physical activities:

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the workday.

• Lift and move materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Use hands and fingers to handle materials, tools, equipment, and machine controls.

• Roll bags, scoop materials, and perform tasks involving kneeling, crouching, or crawling.

• Use feet to operate machinery when required.

• Perform work requiring visual acuity, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Quality, Safety, and Teamwork

At Oterra, product quality, workplace safety, and teamwork are essential to our manufacturing operations. The Production Operator plays an important role in ensuring products are manufactured consistently, meet established specifications, and are handled in accordance with company standards and procedures.

What We Offer

At Oterra, we believe our employees are our greatest asset. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective on your first day of employment.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match: Build your financial future with company-supported retirement savings.

• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Enjoy time away to recharge with paid time off (PTO) and 11 paid holidays.

• Paid Parental Leave: Maternity and paternity leave to support you and your growing family.

• Employee Engagement and Community: Participate in team celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and employee engagement activities that help you connect with colleagues across the company.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

• Basic math skills, including the ability to calculate and convert weights and volumes using the metric system.

• Ability to follow written instructions, production recipes, and established procedures.

• Ability to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), safety guidelines, and sanitation requirements.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.

• Ability to work effectively with team members, supervisors, and Quality Control personnel.

• Ability to safely handle materials and operate production equipment after appropriate training.

• Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation, consistent with applicable job requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.

• Previous manufacturing, production, or packaging experience.

• Experience with mixing, blending, filling, or processing products.

• Forklift operating experience.

• Familiarity with basic hand tools and equipment assembly.

• Experience using SAP or other manufacturing, inventory, or production tracking systems.

• Experience maintaining production records and following quality control procedures.

Interested in learning more about Oterra and what we do? Visit www.oterra.com to explore our company and discover how you can be part of our team!

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.