Slice Line Operator

Okanagan Specialty Fruits•Moses Lake, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc. (OSF) is seeking an experienced Slice Line Operator for its Moses Lake Apple Processing Facility. The operator is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment to its highest capabilities, meeting or exceeding production line standards, and actively participating in workplace safety. The position supports all aspects of slice line operations to maximize efficiency. The role involves overseeing multiple apple slice lines, preparing equipment for production orders, identifying product defects, adjusting equipment, troubleshooting and performing maintenance, and completing changeovers. The operator also verifies staged raw materials, performs production math and data entry, completes operational paperwork, cleans and documents processing and packaging equipment, and communicates production status and issues to relevant teams. The position requires compliance with food safety, quality, GMP, occupational safety, PPE, and security requirements, and may support any position on the processing line as needed.

Requirements

High level of mechanical experience and aptitude.
Experience operating and maintaining industrial equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively with employees at all levels of the company.
High attention to detail.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently on varied tasks.
Ability to speak, read, and write in English.
Ability to follow instructions and work independently with little guidance in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to remain positive and adapt to change.
Knowledge and understanding of GMPs.
Ability to troubleshoot inefficient or malfunctioning equipment under the operator's control to a mechanical level.
Ability to follow recipe directions precisely.
Basic understanding of computer software and ability to use equipment-specific programs.
Track record of safe work history.
Proficient math ability for production reporting and inventory control.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. safely, stand for long periods, twist and bend frequently, use both hands, perform manual and finger-dexterity tasks, climb ladders, and perform repetitive motions.
Ability to work for long periods in cold, wet, and damp conditions of 33°F–38°F and tolerate loud noise.
Ability to use required safety equipment when operating machinery, potentially including protective clothing, safety glasses, hearing protectors, and safety shoes.
Compliance with GMPs, food safety policies, sanitation, hygiene, and PPE requirements; visible body piercings, jewelry, and other prohibited personal items are not allowed on the production floor.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Two or more years of food processing experience preferred.
One year of Cutter or Slice Operator Level experience in food processing desired.
Apple slicing and packaging experience preferred.
Food processing operations experience is a plus.
Knowledge of the BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard is preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee, operate, and maintain multiple apple slice lines in a single slice room.
Prepare equipment, including changing blades for the specific cut size required by production orders.
Identify product defects quickly and make necessary adjustments immediately.
Learn and adjust processing equipment tolerances to support efficiency and productivity while maintaining quality grade.
Observe production-line flow and identify areas for improvement.
Maintain equipment in good working order and troubleshoot equipment failures and inefficiencies.
Perform equipment maintenance and repairs as needed or as designated by the Maintenance Manager.
Complete equipment changeovers quickly and keep the production line running smoothly without unnecessary delays.
Verify staged raw materials for production runs at the beginning and end of the shift.
Perform basic math and data entry, and complete daily operations paperwork accurately and on time, electronically or manually as required.
Communicate routinely with the Production and Quality Supervisor/Manager about efficiency, downtime, pending issues, and concerns.
Collaborate with production, quality, warehouse, and other departments.
Clean processing and packaging equipment as necessary and accurately document cleaning activities using industrial cleaning chemicals.
Follow food safety and food quality standards, regulations, and laws, as well as occupational safety, PPE, and security rules.
Remain current with training expectations and support any position on the processing line as needed.
Demonstrate a daily commitment to continuous improvement and perform other duties assigned by management.