Knife Filer

American Crystal Sugar Co•Moorhead, MN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Knife Filer is responsible for inspecting, sharpening, repairing, and maintaining beet slicing knives and related equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable production operations. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, the ability to use precision measuring tools, and the knowledge to perform equipment adjustments and preventive maintenance while maintaining high safety and quality standards.

Requirements

High School diploma or a GED certificate is required.
Demonstrated mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand how equipment adjustments impact machine performance and downstream operations.
Ability to use precision measuring tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, straight edges, gauges) to verify knife condition, alignment, and tolerances.
Working knowledge of filing, grinding, sharpening, and straightening equipment, including the ability to make mechanical adjustments as required.
Basic understanding of preventative maintenance practices, including lubrication, inspection, and part replacement.
Ability to identify abnormal equipment conditions and clearly communicate maintenance needs.
Candidates are required to complete a Mechanical Aptitude Test and achieve the required minimum passing score.

Responsibilities

Safely operate, adjust, and maintain filing, routing, jointing, straightening, and grinding machines used in knife preparation.
Evaluate knife condition using visual inspection and precision measurement tools to determine wear, straightness, sharpness, and suitability for continued use.
Make mechanical adjustments to filing and grinding equipment to achieve required knife geometry, sharpness, and consistency.
Assist in setting knives and changing cutter blocks, ensuring proper alignment and adherence to operational specifications.
Understand and communicate how knife quality directly impacts downstream process performance and equipment reliability.
Perform preventative and minor corrective maintenance, including lubrication, adjustments, and part replacement.
Identify equipment issues beyond routine maintenance and coordinate with maintenance personnel as needed.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work area while following all safety procedures.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical insurance starting on day one.
Pension
401(k) retirement savings plan with a Company match
Paid dental
Paid basic life insurance
Paid short-term disability
Voluntary long-term disability
Life insurance
Vision insurance
Health savings account
Flexible spending accounts
Paid time off
Paid sick leave
Paid parental leave
Paid holidays
Tuition reimbursement
Service awards
24/7 employee assistance program with access to eight confidential visits with a licensed counselor at no cost.