Slice Line Operator

Okanagan Specialty Fruits•Moses Lake, WA

1d•$24•Onsite

About The Position

Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc. (OSF) is seeking an experienced Slice Line Operator for its Moses Lake Apple Processing Facility. The position operates and maintains equipment to meet or exceed production line standards, supports all aspects of slice line operations to maximize efficiency, and actively participates in workplace safety. The operator oversees and maintains multiple apple slice lines in a single slice room, prepares equipment for production orders, identifies product defects, adjusts equipment to maintain efficiency and quality, and performs changeovers, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repairs as needed. The role also verifies staged raw materials, completes production data entry and paperwork, communicates operational updates, collaborates with production, quality, and warehouse teams, and supports other processing-line positions as needed. The position includes cleaning processing and packaging equipment with industrial cleaning chemicals and documenting cleaning activities. The operator must follow food safety, food quality, GMP, occupational safety, PPE, and security requirements, remain current with training, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. The work environment includes cold, wet, and damp conditions of 33°F–38°F, loud noise, and extended periods on the production floor.

Requirements

High level of mechanical experience and aptitude.
Experience operating and maintaining industrial equipment; food-processing operations experience is a plus.
Ability to communicate well 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.
Ability to troubleshoot inefficient or malfunctioning equipment under the operator’s control to a mechanical level.
Ability to precisely follow recipe directions.
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.
Ability to stand for long periods, twist and bend frequently, use both hands, and perform manual and finger-dexterity tasks.
Ability to climb ladders.
Ability to work for long periods in cold, wet, and damp conditions of 33°F–38°F.
Ability to work around loud noise and perform repetitive motions.
Use required safety equipment when operating machinery, which may include protective clothing, safety glasses, hearing protectors, and safety shoes.
High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
Two or more years of food-processing experience is preferred.
One year of Cutter or Slice Operator Level experience in food processing is desired.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Oversee, operate, and maintain multiple apple slice lines in a single slice room.
Prepare equipment for production orders, including changing blades for the specified cut size.
Identify product defects promptly and make necessary adjustments.
Adjust equipment tolerances to improve efficiency and productivity while maintaining quality grade.
Observe production-line flow and identify opportunities 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 while keeping the production line running smoothly and efficiently.
Verify staged raw materials for production runs at the beginning and end of shifts.
Perform basic math and data entry.
Complete daily operations paperwork accurately and on time, electronically or manually as required.
Communicate status updates about efficiency, downtime, pending issues, and concerns to the Production and Quality Supervisor/Manager.
Collaborate with production, quality, warehouse, and other departments.
Clean processing and packaging equipment as necessary using industrial cleaning chemicals and document cleaning activities accurately.
Follow food safety and food quality standards, regulations, and laws.
Remain current with training expectations.
Support any position on the processing line as needed.
Follow occupational safety, PPE, and security rules and precautions.
Demonstrate a daily commitment to continuous improvement.
Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Comply with GMPs and food safety policies, including sanitation, hygiene, and PPE requirements.
Avoid visible body piercings, jewelry, and other prohibited personal items on the production floor.