Production Operator

Bakery Feeds, by Darling Ingredients•Maquoketa, IA

11d

About The Position

The Production Operator supports the safe and efficient operation of the production process while maintaining quality and compliance standards. The role operates and monitors equipment, works collaboratively with team members, and helps achieve production goals through a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Duties may be assigned or reassigned by management at any time. The operator works in a manufacturing or industrial environment and may be cross-trained to perform duties in multiple production areas as business needs require. The role includes operating and monitoring production equipment, responding to process deviations and equipment issues, completing required documentation, participating in maintenance and improvement activities, and following food safety and quality programs. The work involves frequent exposure to elevated noise levels, strong odors, varying temperatures, dust, and biohazardous materials. It requires regular standing and walking, frequent use of stairs, ladders, platforms, and elevated work areas, and the ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, climb, and regularly lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds. Required PPE includes hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and hard hats.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Ability to work required schedules, including weekends, overtime, and holidays as needed.
Ability to work safely in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
Basic math, reading, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to communicate effectively and recognize workplace hazards to maintain a safe working environment.
Ability to regularly lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and hard hats.

Nice To Haves

One to three years of manufacturing, industrial, agricultural, or related experience.
Forklift certification or previous forklift operating experience.
Mechanical aptitude and basic knowledge of industrial equipment.
Ability to identify and resolve routine operational issues.
Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Continuous improvement mindset and willingness to learn new processes and equipment.

Responsibilities

Follow company safety policies, procedures, and regulations, keeping safety the top priority.
Operate production equipment, including separating, drying, conveying, and bagging systems, safely and efficiently.
Monitor equipment performance and production processes to ensure product quality and operational efficiency.
Make process adjustments and respond appropriately to process deviations, alarms, and equipment issues.
Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and quality standards.
Accurately complete production records, checklists, and other required documentation.
Read, understand, and interpret written instructions, operating procedures, and process information.
Conduct routine equipment inspections and basic troubleshooting.
Participate in Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), including equipment cleaning, inspection, and minor maintenance tasks.
Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with housekeeping and sanitation standards.
Safely operate forklifts and other material handling equipment when required and properly trained.
Participate in safety, quality, food defense, and food safety training programs.
Support continuous improvement initiatives, Lean Manufacturing activities, and internal audits.
Fulfill responsibilities related to the company's food safety and quality programs.
Collaborate with team members, supervisors, and other departments to achieve production goals.
Cross-train to perform duties in multiple production areas as business needs require.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.