Production Technician Lead in Training - Nights

Prairie Aquatech•Volga, SD

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is a manufacturing company based in Volga South Dakota that is improving animal health and nutrition by providing high-quality feed ingredients. Using patent-pending technologies licensed on a worldwide, exclusive basis from South Dakota State University and developed internally, the Company is upgrading soybean meal to high-quality ingredients used in aquaculture and other animal feeds. JOB DUTIES As a key member of the Production team, this role will report to the Production Supervisor and will be responsible for the following:

Requirements

Minimum 1 year experience in Production.
Minimum 1 year demonstrated ability to lead a small team.
High school diploma required; manufacturing experience preferred.
Production experience and familiarity with processing equipment (pumps, motors, etc.).
Ability to multitask while maintaining quality and attention to detail.
Strong time management skills and ability to work independently.
Ability to follow protocols with precision and accuracy.
Conflict resolution skills to effectively address workplace issues.
Ability to inspire, motivate, and maintain a positive team environment.
Experience fostering accountability and performance management.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Keen analytical and critical thinking abilities.
Quick and effective troubleshooting skills.
Excellent communication skills.
Understanding of equipment maintenance.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret documents and P&IDs.
Capable of working with hand and power tools.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of a 30,000 MT/year processing plant during assigned shifts.
Oversee all production activities on shift to ensure throughput, quality, and performance targets are met.
Follow procedures for plant start-up, shutdown, cleaning, and batching.
Observe gauges, dials, and other indicators to ensure equipment is operating properly.
Responsible for initial troubleshooting of process issues.
Evaluate operational data daily to ensure the process remains in control.
Able to assist with troubleshooting of seed train issues.
Review water tests, treatments, and logs; make chemical adjustments for boiler and cooling tower as needed.
Accountable for maintaining a safety-first environment for all team members on shift.
Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental protocols.
Must be able to manage and supervise confined space entries.
Ensure complete and accurate log entries of all pertinent operational issues.
Ensure complete and accurate REC's and shift reports.
Notify the Production Supervisor of any production problems or safety concerns.
Responsible for the safety, performance, and development of all shift team members.
Develop a team environment that supports achievement of production goals.
Mentor and coach team members while identifying opportunities for growth and skill development.
Hold team members accountable through clear expectations, monitoring performance, and timely feedback.
Recognize and reward achievements to motivate and reinforce positive behaviors.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging innovation and problem-solving.
Lead by example through professionalism, integrity, and strong work ethic.
Ensure completion of position checklists and required job duties across the crew.
Ensure the crew stays up to date with all required LMS and field training.
Responsible for continued learning and progression through tier levels.
Ability to attend required training or meetings outside of normal shift schedule.
Any other tasks as assigned.