Packaging Utility Operator - Little Falls 3rd

Barrett Petfood•Little Falls, MN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Barrett Petfood is hiring a full-time Packaging Utility Operator for its onsite facility in Little Falls, Minnesota. The role supports packaging-line setup and operation, product quality, troubleshooting, and production efficiency while contributing to the manufacture of pet food products. The position works Monday through Friday from 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM, with a stated shift differential. The Utility Operator works closely with line operators, material handlers, supervisors, managers, process engineering, and maintenance. The role includes coaching operators on packaging-line setups, supporting product development and troubleshooting, verifying quality checks and documentation, and escalating safety, quality, or production issues. The position requires following safety protocols, maintaining a clean workspace, and performing physically demanding tasks in a manufacturing environment.

Requirements

Strong problem-solving abilities.
Customer-centric mindset.
Effective communication skills.
Adaptability to varying tasks and challenges.
Attention to detail to maintain safety standards, monitor processes, and ensure product quality.
Commitment to safety practices and willingness to learn.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods in a manufacturing facility.
Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to bend, reach, climb stairs, stoop, kneel, and perform other physical activities required in a manufacturing environment.
Ability to routinely climb and descend stairs and ladders safely, including accessing elevated work areas and equipment.
Ability to safely operate or work from a scissor lift to access elevated equipment and production areas.
Ability to maintain balance and stability on elevated platforms, stairs, ladders, and uneven or wet surfaces.
Ability to work in varying conditions, including hot, cold, wet, humid, noisy, or temperature-fluctuating areas.

Responsibilities

Help set up all lines and coach operators on setting packaging lines to machine centerlines and confirming setups match the correct product.
Support and improve centerline and troubleshooting processes.
Assist the Process Engineer with product development when needed.
Assist the Manager and/or Supervisor with department needs.
Identify and investigate issues and report them to the supervisor for support.
Monitor and validate that products meet standards, check paperwork, and ensure the correct product is being produced.
Conduct and record metal, weight, seal, and lot-code checks.
Verify that cleans are accurate by assigning duties to others on the line, completing quality documents, and ensuring timely completion.
Communicate with material handlers about upcoming jobs to support smooth transitions.
Communicate packaging needs to the Packaging Supervisor as necessary.
Notify the Packaging Supervisor of safety, quality, or production escalation issues.
Support equipment troubleshooting to meet daily throughput requirements.
Notify maintenance if the packaging line breaks.
Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean workspace.