Processing Operator

Alphia • Pittsburg, TX

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Processing Operator ensures quality products are produced by properly operating extrusion and related equipment. The role involves setting up equipment and producing products using run sheets and written formulas, supporting customers during test runs of new or reformulated diets, and directing or training others in extrusion process and setup skills as needed.

The operator assembles, calibrates, operates, and monitors extrusion systems and auxiliary equipment; evaluates equipment and product quality; makes adjustments to meet specifications; and troubleshoots technical issues or notifies maintenance. The role also supports product development and testing, communicates with Quality Assurance, completes production paperwork and reports, and maintains a safe, clean work area. Operators perform changeovers and clean equipment between product runs as directed, and may operate Meat Room, Mixing, Coating, and Batching systems when applicable.

Requirements

• High school diploma and/or GED required.
• Extrusion experience strongly preferred; previous machine experience may be substituted.
• Willingness to work in a team environment and contribute to group goals.
• Ability to receive and provide instructions in a positive manner.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentages.
• Ability to multitask.
• Ability to read and follow simple written instructions.
• Ability to distinguish colors and duplicate them in the extrusion process.
• Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including lifting or exerting force at the specified levels.
• Ability to work in the described production environment and use required personal protective equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Extrusion experience.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, calibrate, operate, and monitor extruders and auxiliary equipment on both extrusion systems.
• Inspect and evaluate equipment hourly and adjust equipment variables to meet equipment and product requirements.
• Dump, weigh, carry, and stack bags of ingredients and/or product, including bags weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Operate a forklift and handheld scanners to retrieve ingredients from inventory for production.
• Evaluate orders, ensure paperwork is complete and accurate, and complete status reports and simple production reports.
• Distinguish colors and duplicate them in the extrusion process.
• Assist clients with product and procedure development through research and development and test work.
• Maintain effective communication with the Quality Assurance department and follow applicable quality assurance procedures and programs.
• Ensure products meet individual client specifications and take responsibility for product quality attributes.
• Evaluate product quality and promptly adjust products found to be out of specification.
• Anticipate and troubleshoot technical problems, make technical adjustments where appropriate, and/or notify maintenance.
• Operate Meat Room, Mixing, Coating, and Batching systems when applicable to product runs.
• Maintain a safe and clean work area and environment.
• Participate in facility and equipment cleanup between product runs as directed.
• Complete required changeovers accurately and efficiently.
• Become familiar with GMPs and Standard Operating Procedures for all products.
• Perform other duties as assigned or directed.

What This Job Offers

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