Champion Petfoods is expanding! We are excited to announce that we are looking for a Production Operator-Freeze Dry Packaging to join our rapidly growing company. With thirty years of growth in the global pet food sector, our ORIJEN and ACANA brands define our vision of being The Global Leader in Advancing Premium Food for Pets. If you are passionate about personal and professional growth and see yourself as a key player contributing to our continued success by working in our award-winning company – we would love to hear from you.

The Process Technician - Freeze Dry Packaging has primary responsibility for ensuring that all packaging of product is undertaken and executed according to established specifications that include emphasis on quality, efficiency and cost effectiveness, in the Auburn, KY manufacturing facility. This position is required to assess the presentation of packaged product on a regular basis and to ensure timely communication with the Freeze Dry Team Leader regarding packaging issues or concerns. This position supports company initiatives to achieve goals and objectives set by our BAFRINO mandate and the Champion Petfoods vision “to be trusted by pet lovers worldwide.”

Responsibilities

• Consult with the Team Leader to determine scheduled production runs and associated packaging requirements
• Ensure packaging specifications and construction are suitable for applicable product and production runs
• Operate automated and manual packaging equipment in a safe and efficient manner
• Remove Freeze Dried treats and palatant from freeze dry chambers, sample and prepare for storage or packaging.
• Operate tray washer to ensure that equipment is properly cleaned and ready for use
• May perform duties in Freeze Dry Forming as needed
• Conduct visual inspection to control any damaged or incorrect packaging and remove same from production run(s)
• Process all required paperwork and maintain timely and accurate records for reporting purposes according to established practices and procedures and properly use and maintain the department’s inventory tracking system
• Develop and maintain successful professional working relationships, including good communication practices, with relevant Production Department staff
• Participate in annual physical inventory as determined by the Company
• Maintain a neat and organized work area according to established corporate policies, procedures and safety regulations
• Develop awareness and understanding of the Company’s policies, practices and procedures related to health and safety, food safety and the environment and commit to personal compliance with same
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• 2-3 years’ experience operating food processing machinery.
• Leadership skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and adept with tools and equipment, including ability to safely operate a forklift
• Strong sense of logic and problem solving skills, with attention to detail in all areas of work
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, with ability to accurately complete required paperwork
• Good interpersonal skills with ability to work successfully both independently and as part of a team

Working Conditions

• 24/7 availability may be required
• Willing to work any shift as necessary
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Travel to off-site locations may be required
• Proper use of safety equipment will be required, e.g. steel-toed safety boots, safety glasses/goggles, etc.
• Willing to work overtime as required
• Work activities will include both indoor and outdoor environments
• Regularly required to work at heights; fall arrest training to be provided by the Company
• Manufacturing plant working conditions, with exposure to dust, noise, odors and/or fluctuating temperatures

Champion is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.