Demo

Production Operator

USG
Otsego, MN Full Time
POSTED ON 4/8/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/7/2026
Primary Function

The Utility position continuously supports the Production Department by completing daily tasks as directed by the Production Foreman – tasks will vary based on operation demands and position vacancies. The Utility is an Operator 1 (Entry) position that will immediately start training to allow future coverage of Operator 2 positions: Filler Driver, Liner Driver, Production Loader, 5H, and Lab Tester.

Basic Requirements

Safety

  • Understand and observe all plant safety rules.
  • Must be able to perform this job safely and actively participate in all safety programs. Understand your surroundings and the potential dangers within your work areas.

Operations

  • Perform duties as assigned by Production Foreman / Lead Supervisor / Area Supervisor.
  • Production employees will occasionally have to work overtime. As with all positions at the plant, overtime is mandatory and regular and predictable attendance is an essential factor.
  • The job procedures and requirements are applicable for the continuous operation of the Mill organization. The operator must remain on the job until the end of the shift and be relieved by the incoming position (applies to the coverage positions).

Job Procedures and Requirements

Support 5H

  • Support Winder Operator with taping rolls and putting in core plugs.
  • Support reel turn-ups.
  • Fork Truck – move cores and empty hoppers.
  • Bobcat – clean Paper Machine (PM) Basement.

Filler Driver Coverage

  • Learn various types of bales in the Filler Plant: Old Corrugated Containers (OCC: Grocery, Stainless, and Brick), Double Lined Kraft (DLK).
  • Squeeze Truck – load Filler Conveyor and break down reject rolls.
  • Linde Fork Truck – relocate pallets of rope and chemical totes.

Liner Driver Coverage

  • Support Liner Plant routine shutdown / start-ups with lockout tag outs and housekeeping.
  • Assist Liner Operator (ex. troubleshoot with Liner Operator).
  • Learn various types of bales in the Liner Plant: Flyleaf (FLY), Signature (SIG), Sorted White Ledger (SWL), Pie-Plate.
  • Squeeze Truck – load Liner Conveyor and unloading bales from trucks.
  • Linde Truck – empty hoppers.

Production Loader Coverage

  • Identify different paper grades and width of rolls.
  • Clamp Truck – relocate / stack rolls from Roll Kicker to the Mill-Side Finished Goods Warehouse (FGW).
  • Support Winder Operations / Roll Handling (as necessary).

Support Lab Tester

  • Cut paper samples (paper retention samples and lab tests).
  • Learn a basic understanding of MDIS.

Other Job Procedures & Training

  • Familiar with duties required during normal wash-ups.
  • Fire watch rounds, general clean-up, screen inspections, clothing changes, etc.
  • Responsible for housekeeping and supporting 5S initiatives in assigned areas to meet housekeeping expectations.
  • Familiar with all pertinent lockout procedures and support all production in lockouts.
  • Review Visual Work Instructions (VWI) in their respective area and complete SOC.
  • Complete Operator 2 Training for the following positions (as required): Filler Driver, Liner Driver, Production Loader, 5H, and Lab Tester.

NOTES

The first week, the Utility will shadow the 5H or lab tester position until spending a week with Supply Chain for basic mobile equipment training.

  • DAY 1: 8AM – 3PM
  • REMAINDER OF WEEK 1 (DAY 2 – 5): 5:30AM – 2PM (5:45AM Safety Huddle with Production Crew)
  • WEEK 2: 5:30AM – 2PM (5:35AM Check-In with Supply Chain | 5:45AM Safety Huddle with Production Crew)

The Utility will be released to their assigned Production Crew once they pass the mobile equipment training – further training must be completed with Production to be qualified in any of the Operator 2 positions.

Qualifications

  • Be able to perform the essential physical requirements necessary for this position.
  • Demonstrate the ability to safely operate a Fork Truck, Squeeze Truck, Clamp Truck, and Bobcat. A valid driver’s license is required.
  • Promotes, maintains, and enforces safety to promote an accident-free operation.
  • Incorporates a safe-minded approach to all aspects of the department, including the process improvement initiatives.
  • Self-starter and the ability to handle multiple priorities effectively.
  • Business-minded, people and results oriented, with a strong emphasis on safety and quality.
  • No significant performance/ attendance infractions within the last 36 months.



Rate of pay may be adjusted based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.

USG employees enjoy a number of benefit options for themselves and their families. These include two medical insurance options, as well as vision and dental coverage. The cost of these optional programs varies based on coverage level - employees generally pay 25% of the monthly premium cost, USG pays the rest. These coverage options are offered on the first day of employment with no waiting period.

Additionally, USG employees enjoy both a 401(k) Investment Plan with company match and a pension plan. Beyond these main features, employees may also choose from a number of additional programs like life insurance, accident insurance, legal insurance, even pet insurance, just to name a few. USG also offers Quarterly (hourly) / Annual (salary) bonus potential for all employees based on performance metrics tied to safety, quality, and productivity. USG also provides employees with paid time off and paid holidays.

Since 1902, Chicago-based USG has been a leader in producing innovative, award-winning products and systems to build everything from major commercial developments and residential housing to home improvements. USG's employees are committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and quality in everything we do. Our steadfast commitment to the company's core business values – innovation, quality, integrity, service, diversity, efficiency and safety – have helped us become the company we are today.

EOE including disability/veteran

Headquartered in Chicago, we serve construction markets around the world with wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing and roofing products that enable our customers to build the outstanding spaces where people live, work and play.

Our network of plants, mines, quarries and other facilities includes 49 manufacturing locations and over 7,500 employees across North America.

Salary.com Estimation for Production Operator in Otsego, MN
$63,818 to $80,179
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