Operator- 1st Shift $16.00 3am-3pm

Butterball Farms, Inc. • Grand Rapids, MI

5d • $15 - $16

About The Position

The Operator sets up, operates, troubleshoots, and maintains production equipment to meet production specifications and quality standards. The role supports a continuous production line by loading butter, keeping materials stocked, monitoring product consistency and operating parameters, completing equipment changeovers, recording production information, and coordinating with teammates and Maintenance. The position is based in a production and processing environment with cold temperatures, machinery, concrete floors, and fast-paced, physically demanding team work. The advertised schedule is 1st shift, 3 a.m.–3 p.m., at $16.00 per hour.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Good eye-hand coordination.
• Ability to read and understand standard work instructions.
• Ability to work at a consistent, fast pace for extended periods and keep up with a fast-paced production line.
• Flexibility to adjust work schedule to accommodate high work volumes.
• General math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Ability to adhere to GMP policies and maintain product quality standards.

Nice To Haves

• Previous food manufacturing experience.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, troubleshoot, and resolve machine issues in accordance with production specifications.
• Use appropriate tools to perform and complete preventive maintenance tasks.
• Communicate with the Maintenance team when additional support is needed.
• Learn and perform all line-related positions within the designated area of responsibility.
• Monitor product consistency and ensure weights remain within specified ranges.
• Adjust and monitor tunnel controls to maintain required operating parameters.
• Maintain accurate logs and track inventory used during production.
• Safely lift and load blocks of butter into the machine to maintain continuous production-line feed.
• Work as part of a team to achieve the designated production rate.
• Visually inspect products, ensure quality standards are met, and identify and report quality concerns.
• Conduct equipment changeovers efficiently as part of a team.
• Use software systems to record downtime and track raw material usage.
• Use scan guns to track inventory or product movement.
• Ensure the production line is continuously stocked with necessary materials.
• Perform regular quality checks, including metal detector inspections, as required.
• Follow safety procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of production and quality goals.

Benefits

• Opportunities for growth and advancement, including development and internal promotion.
• Innovative and inclusive culture that supports continuous improvement, personal growth, and diversity.
• Shift premiums for second- and third-shift positions.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Tuition reimbursement for approved programs.
• Access to community resources and support services through The Source.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support for personal, family, or work-related issues.
• Comprehensive benefits plan including medical, dental, vision, critical illness, flexible spending accounts, dependent care, and accident insurance.

What This Job Offers

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