Production Operator

Balchem Corporation•Defiance, OH

About The Position

The Production Operator safely sets up, operates, shuts down, and cleans production equipment used to mix powdered products to customer-defined specifications. Product quality and consistency are evaluated using measures such as bulk density, particle size, customer liquification tests, and powder flow. The operator must follow all applicable SOPs and perform work in a safe and sanitary manner, including thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing product-contact surfaces. A thorough understanding of equipment and controls is necessary for successful qualification. The role also involves maintaining equipment and work areas, completing operating and cleaning checklists, attending required training, following confined-space regulations, and submitting work orders for maintenance support. Hours may change with production needs, and additional hours may be required. During equipment downtime, operators may maintain idle equipment, clean designated areas, or perform other assigned tasks.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have sufficient education to follow written and oral instructions.
Must be able to learn and master the knowledge needed to operate procedures and associated equipment efficiently and effectively.
Mechanical knowledge and ability to perform minor equipment repairs and maintenance.
Must be self-disciplined, a team player, and able to handle emergencies common to the operation.
Must maintain personal cleanliness and follow company and regulatory Good Manufacturing Practices guidelines.
Must be able to write clearly and in an organized manner.
Must reach an acceptable level of task proficiency within a four-week training period; competency is determined by a Demonstration of Ability module conducted by the department Supervisor.

Responsibilities

Set up operational parameters and related equipment safely and correctly before production, following SOPs.
Operate required equipment during production to maintain powder quality and consistency in accordance with company requirements and SOPs.
Safely shut down machinery and related equipment according to SOPs.
Clean and sanitize all associated equipment, including product-contact surfaces, using proper sanitation techniques.
Complete checklists for operating and cleaning equipment.
Maintain peak operating efficiency of equipment.
Keep associated work areas clean, neat, and dry throughout the shift.
Attend company-mandated training, including safety and Good Manufacturing Practices training.
Follow confined-space regulations consistently.
Complete and submit work orders when maintenance assistance is required.
During equipment downtime, perform maintenance on idle equipment, clean designated areas, or complete other assigned tasks.
Perform other duties as assigned or directed by plant management.