Operator, Days

Van Drunen • Momence, IL

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The Operator role plays a key role in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality food production. They will oversee one or more machines and perform essential tasks that support production runs across processes such as drying, freezing, wet and dry processing, sifting, grinding, boxing, and packaging. The operator responsibilities include assembling and disassembling equipment, sanitizing work areas, transporting materials, loading and unloading supplies, and setting up equipment for production. This role also assists in operating and tending various machines throughout the production process, following all established safety, quality, and operational standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 months in a production environment, or an equivalent combination of related experience, education, and training.
• Ability to read and write; basic computer skills preferred.
• Familiarity with ERP scanners may be in certain work areas.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
• Accurately count items, report weights, and track inventory adjustments.
• A High School Diploma or GED is for this role
• Ability to stand, walk, and use hands and arms for reaching and handling tasks.
• Comfortable walking up and down stairs and ramps.
• Ability to climb ladders safely.
• Regularly lift or handle boxes, bags, or equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent bending, stooping, and kneeling during work activities.
• Ability to push or pull sizeable equipment from a standing position.
• Visual requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, hearing protection, eye protection, and head protection.

Nice To Haves

• Previous forklift experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Start up and operate equipment safely and responsibly; perform minor adjustments as needed.
• Follow all safety standards and participate in training to protect yourself and your team.
• Understand and apply Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures; stop any unsafe practices immediately.
• Wear required PPE (masks, safety glasses, ear plugs) and remind others to comply.
• Lead safety stretching and actively participate in team safety meetings.
• Report safety concerns promptly and appropriately.
• Follow all GMPs and SOPs consistently.
• Identify and report product quality or handling issues.
• Perform Critical Control Point (CCP) checks and verifications during production.
• Complete all required training related to quality and compliance.
• Perform work functions independently or as part of a team; lead basic tasks when needed.
• Prepare for the next shift and take ownership of meeting production goals.
• Respond to management instructions, make sound decisions, and complete tasks on time.
• Liaise with other departments to improve efficiency, quality, or safety.
• Complete cleaning and sanitation of equipment using approved tools and chemicals.
• Perform scheduled cleaning tasks (weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually).
• Be available to work overtime as needed to meet production goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Support peers and contribute positively to team success; lead by example.
• Communicate professionally with coworkers and supervisors.
• Report concerns related to safety, quality, operations, or HR to the appropriate person.
• Encourage accountability by reminding peers of proper procedures and reporting non-compliance.
• Assist in training new hires and support peer development through coaching and knowledge sharing.

Benefits

• Bonus: This role may further qualify for supplemental compensation in the form of bonus and incentive programs, contingent upon achieving pre-established individual and company performance metrics.
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• Benefits Available : 2026-benefits-summary.pdf

What This Job Offers

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