Extruder Operator

KLN ENTERPRISES INC•Delano, MN

17h•$0 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

KLN Family Brands is a 3rd generation family-owned business that started in 1964. Our vision is that “We are a proud people-first company. We are successful because of trust-based relationships and first-rate products for our families and friends. We better the world by caring for others. We challenge. We grow. We inspire.” An Extruder Operator is the engine behind the pet treat-making process. They operate and optimize extrusion equipment that mixes, cooks, shapes, and cuts ingredients into finished treats. Through careful monitoring and adjustments, they keep the process running efficiently while producing high-quality products that meet safety and quality standards.

Requirements

General mathematical ability
Self-motivation
Learning, memorizing and executing a sequence of procedures
Good hand – eye coordination
Willing and able to get along with others
Good judgement and reasoning abilities
Basic Leadership Skills
Can lift up to 80+ pounds
Ability to drive a forklift and pass certification exam

Responsibilities

Review and follow daily production schedule verifying against their product information sheets for accuracy
Communicate with dry ingredient personnel as to which materials should be used for their immediate production needs
Coordinate with slurry operators to verify which liquid products are being made
Operate the extruder and monitor ancillary equipment to produce products that meet the desired specifications set forth by the Quality Assurance Department
Visually inspect and save samples throughout all runs to be taken to the Quality Control Lab for final analysis
Responsible to record operation parameters and turn in at the end of each shift
Monitor all feed formulas presented to them for color, odor and grind notifying supervisor of anything that looks out of specification
Cleaning systems as required between production runs
Setting up die plates for each different run and monitoring knife wear
Proficient in using batch logic system
Able to operate cutters, grillers, ovens and other equipment used in the extrusion department
Calibrate process flow monitors prior to each run
Daily clean up and sanitation of extruder area
Involved in weekly cleaning of extrusion area
Notify maintenance of any unusual equipment noises or failures
Train new departmental employees
Perform miscellaneous duties as assigned by Supervisor
Cross train in dry ingredient receiving on operation of dry ingredient system
Cross train in slurry room
Attend safety trainings
Follow all safety instructions and policies
Report any injuries or near miss accidents to supervisor
Report any unsafe acts or conditions to supervisor
Wear required PPE that is determined by site
Keep work area clean and free of debris
Assist in maintaining all sanitation schedules
Attend food safety trainings
Follow all GMPs and food safety instructions