Machine Operator - All Shifts

Stratas Foods•Nashville, TN

18h

About The Position

Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for safely operating and monitoring assigned production equipment. With guidance from experienced operators and supervisors, the operator performs basic machine adjustments, quality checks, sanitation activities, and routine equipment tasks while developing proficiency on assigned equipment. The role supports production of high-quality products by following safety, food safety, quality, and operational standards. The position is offered on three shifts: 1st shift, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; 2nd shift, 3:00 p.m.–11:30 p.m.; and 3rd shift, 11:00 p.m.–7:30 a.m. Employees may have the opportunity to learn various positions and must fill in when needed for temporary or permanent vacancies.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Ability to operate production equipment safely and effectively.
Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to read and follow work instructions, SOPs, and production schedules.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to learn and follow written rules and procedures.
Ability to produce accurate documentation.
Acceptable attendance.
Ability to walk throughout the plant and climb stairs and portable or fixed ladders.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
Sufficient visual, hearing, speaking, smell, and touch acuity to identify and respond to normal, abnormal, and alarm conditions, including those involving chemicals and temperature.
Ability to work logically and methodically through complex problems and processes and communicate effectively with all levels of the organization.

Nice To Haves

Previous relevant experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Follow company safety policies, GMPs, food safety requirements, and quality standards; wear required PPE and follow safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout when applicable.
Handle cleaning chemicals safely and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Set up, start, operate, monitor, and shut down production equipment according to established standards.
Adjust machines to meet product specifications, packaging requirements, and operating conditions; monitor equipment performance and product flow.
Detect and respond to malfunctions, equipment abnormalities, and product defects; safely stop, reset, and restart equipment; clear jams and minor equipment issues.
Perform product changeovers while maintaining quality and food safety standards.
Conduct quality checks and inspections, including verification of fill weights, package integrity, coding accuracy, and product appearance; communicate and help resolve quality concerns.
Complete required quality documentation accurately and on time, and ensure products meet customer and company specifications.
Teardown, clean, sanitize, and reassemble equipment, including pumps, sanitary piping, fillers, conveyors, and associated production equipment.
Operate CIP systems as required and verify equipment cleanliness and readiness before production startup; promptly report sanitation or quality concerns.
Inspect equipment, identify potential mechanical issues, complete assigned autonomous maintenance activities and MSS tasks, and assist maintenance staff with preventative maintenance and repairs as needed.
Communicate equipment performance concerns to supervisors and maintenance teams and support efforts to reduce downtime through monitoring and troubleshooting.
Complete production records, downtime reports, quality checks, sanitation records, and other operational documentation; record downtime events and causes and maintain accurate production and efficiency data.
Identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, efficiency, waste reduction, and equipment performance; participate in improvement and problem-solving activities and support departmental OEE, productivity, quality, and cost-control goals.
Participate in efficiency and safety improvement teams, learn various positions, and fill in for temporary or permanent vacancies when needed.