What are the responsibilities and job description for the Loader Operator position at Wayne-Sanderson Farms?
Job Summary:
Primarily responsible for safely operating loaders and related equipment to move live poultry in a safe and secure manner. Ensures loads are properly handled according to company policies, biosecurity procedures, and regulatory requirements. Maintains equipment in good working condition while following all company safety standards, animal welfare guidelines, and local, state, and federal regulations.
Job Responsibilities:
- Operate loaders, forklifts, or other heavy equipment to move live poultry in designated areas.
- Assist with loading and unloading trucks, trailers, or holding areas as needed.
- Ensure safe and secure handling of loads to prevent injuries or product loss.
- Perform pre-operation equipment inspections and maintain accurate documentation (i.e., equipment checks, time, loads moved, weights, etc.).
- Clean and wash equipment as necessary.
- Report equipment or maintenance issues promptly to supervisor.
- Follow all company safety, animal welfare, biosecurity, and sanitation rules and procedures.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Flexible work hours required, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Previous forklift, loader, or skid steer experience preferred.
- Ability to climb on/off equipment and work in different weather conditions.
- Ability to work independently and follow instructions.
Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Previous poultry industry or agricultural equipment operation experience.
- Basic math and recordkeeping skills.
Safety Requirements:
- Follow all company safety policies and programs, including lockout/tagout, PPE, and equipment operation rules.
- Wear assigned Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Comply with biosecurity and animal welfare standards.
Physical Requirements:
- Work in outdoor environments (including inclement weather) and inside poultry houses or processing areas.
- Ability to sit, stand, and operate equipment for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. as needed.
- Work around raw, live animal odors.
- Work in noisy environments (>85 decibels) and around moving equipment.
- Must be able to work nights, weekends, holidays, and long shifts as required.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Wayne-Sanderson does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person’s veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
