Protein Conversion Feather/Blood Operator

Pilgrim's • Edinburg, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Feather/Blood Systems Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the feather and blood processing systems in a protein conversion facility. The role monitors processing equipment, maintains product quality and equipment performance, and supports production goals while following safety, environmental, and company policies.

This position is based at the Protein Conversion facility in Edinburg, Virginia, and is scheduled for the second shift, 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The industrial facility involves exposure to moving machinery, steam, heat, dust, raw materials, odors, finished products, and hot and cold weather. Overtime, weekends, holidays, or emergency call-ins may be required as needed.

The position offers a base hourly rate of $20.45. Medical, vision, and dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment. Paid time off includes sick leave, vacation, and six company-observed holidays. A 401(k) company match begins after the first year of service, subject to the company vesting schedule. The company also offers learning and development programs to support career growth.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to understand and follow operating procedures and safety guidelines.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to safety, consistent attendance, and reliability.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work on elevated platforms.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach frequently.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, odors, noise levels, and outdoor weather conditions.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, respirators, and steel-toed footwear.

Nice To Haves

• Previous manufacturing, rendering, protein conversion, or poultry experience.
• Experience operating cookers, pumps, conveyors, and processing equipment.
• Forklift certification.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor feather and blood processing systems, including collection, transfer, storage, drying, meal handling, pumps, tanks, conveyors, and related equipment.
• Monitor temperatures, pressures, flow rates, and other operating parameters to support product quality and efficient production.
• Ensure proper material flow through processing systems and make operational adjustments as needed.
• Conduct routine equipment inspections, identify process or equipment issues, and notify supervision or maintenance of abnormalities.
• Collect product samples and assist with quality control activities.
• Maintain accurate production records, operating logs, and shift documentation.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and support equipment cleaning and sanitation activities.
• Maintain cleanliness, housekeeping, and sanitation standards in receiving, processing, and loadout areas.
• Follow safety, environmental, and company policies and support plant efficiency and operational excellence.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental coverage beginning after 60 days of employment.
• Paid sick leave and vacation.
• Six company-observed holidays.
• 401(k) company match beginning after the first year of service, subject to the company vesting schedule.
• Learning and development programs supporting professional growth and career development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED