Equipment Operator

empirical foods, inc.•Garden City, KS

About The Position

The Equipment Operator operates and monitors large industrial equipment used in facility operations. Operators are assigned and trained on one or more pieces of equipment and are responsible for controlling equipment, people, and processes to meet production and sanitation requirements. The role ensures equipment operates efficiently and in accordance with safety and quality standards, supports timely equipment startup, and maintains clear communication with plant management and other departments. The position also assists with equipment teardown, cleaning, rebuilding, and upkeep; monitors equipment displays and material processing; maintains plant and work-area cleanliness; and supports smooth shift transitions. As required, the operator may provide stewardship of machine-center reliability and act as backup leadership to a supervisor.

Requirements

Basic math skills.
Strong mechanical aptitude.
Good observation skills and the ability to troubleshoot problems.
Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Willingness and ability to ask questions about unfamiliar tasks.
Effective written and verbal communication with employees at all levels.
Regular and punctual attendance.
Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, twist, reach, bend, and lift.
Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 60 pounds.
Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including weekends.
High school diploma or equivalent, or verifiable ability to perform essential job functions.

Nice To Haves

General knowledge of computers and software.
At least 1 year of plant production experience or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Monitor and control equipment, people, and processes to meet production and sanitation requirements.
Ensure equipment operates optimally and in accordance with safety and quality assurance standards.
Maintain situational awareness and promptly communicate production or equipment issues to plant management.
Assist with teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment.
Set up panels and equipment properly for production and support efficient, timely equipment startup.
Monitor equipment displays and material processing to ensure the quality of the finished product; notify management or correct problems as appropriate.
Follow established procedures and processes and maintain the integrity of those procedures.
Support smooth shift transitions by communicating relevant information to prevent production interruptions.
Maintain cleanliness of the plant and work areas.
Communicate issues accurately and work with other departments to solve problems and complete tasks.
As required, provide stewardship and oversight of machine-center upkeep and reliability.
As required, provide leadership as backup to the supervisor.
Perform all other duties as assigned.