Production Operator - Extraction Plant - Valdosta, GA

Archer Daniels Midland Company•Valdosta, GA

45d•Onsite

About The Position

The Production Operator is a key member of our soybean extraction team, responsible for operating, monitoring, and troubleshooting plant equipment to safely and efficiently extract oil from soybeans. Candidates must have an open schedule, able to work rotating shifts, holidays, weekends, and overtime as needed. This position requires strong mechanical understanding, attention to detail, and the ability to think critically in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Operators are expected to learn new systems, identify problem areas, and work with others to drive safe, reliable production.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or trade school experience preferred.
Must be 18 years or older.
Must be eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.
Ability to understand and effectively communicate in English (verbal/written).
Exhibit regular and prompt attendance and maintain attendance record in accordance with company policy.
1-3 years of manufacturing or industrial experience, ideally in food, feed, or chemical processing.
Strong mechanical aptitude - comfortable using tools, valves, pumps, and control systems.
Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving ability; can identify root causes and think creatively under pressure.
Safety-minded and able to follow detailed procedures with precision.
Capable of learning complex processes and cross-training across multiple areas.
Basic computer and record-keeping skills.
Physically able to climb stairs, work in hot/cold environments, and lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to lean and understand production equipment, flow, and variables (Temperature, mass and liquid flow, concentration, equipment operability, interlocks)
Teamwork
Wiliness to sharing knowledge and training other colleagues.
Learning on the fly.
Ability to follow and prepare operational procedures
Ability to be goal oriented (KPI's).
Systemic vision

Nice To Haves

Prior maintenance or equipment repair experience a strong plus.

Responsibilities

Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot equipment throughout the extraction process to maintain safe, efficient, and consistent operation.
Identify, communicate, and assist in resolving process or equipment issues - using sound judgment and hands-on troubleshooting skills.
Perform regular walk-throughs, inspections, and sampling to ensure equipment and product meet operating and quality standards.
Support maintenance activities including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), minor mechanical adjustments, and equipment isolation.
Partner closely with maintenance and operations teams to identify root causes and implement lasting solutions.
Follow all Safety, Health, Environmental, and Quality policies - "Safe or we don't do it."
Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and maintain clean, organized work areas.
Participate in shift handoffs, toolbox talks, and production meetings to communicate performance and improvement opportunities.
Complete accurate production reports, logs, and administrative tasks.
Once qualified, train and mentor new team members in operating procedures and safe work practices.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Weekly Pay
Benefits Start First Day
Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance
Health and Wellness Incentives
Paid Vacation and Holidays
401K/ESOP, pension with ADM (Archer Daniels Midland) matching contributions
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Short & Long-Term Disability
Company Paid Life Insurance and Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees,' Spouse and Children
Parental leave (paternity/maternity)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Tuition Assistance
Advancement Opportunities
Perks at work (discount program with several companies)