Production Associate

Ardent Mills•Kenosha, WI

11d•$18 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Utility Operator maintains sanitary conditions throughout the facility and develops proficiency in at least two plant operating positions to provide coverage when positions are vacant or relief is needed. Team members who adapt successfully to the work environment, duties, and safety culture may be considered for promotion as other roles become available. The role requires reliable, safe, environmentally responsible, compliant, and efficient work; adherence to safety and food safety policies; and the ability to learn new technology, handle change, organize multiple tasks, and work respectfully with others. This is a full-time, on-site position at Ardent Mills’ production facility in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The listed schedule is first shift, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with overtime available. After cross-training, employees must be able to work alternate shifts of 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. Schedules may also vary based on operational needs and could include overtime, weekends, holidays, or on-call responsibilities where applicable. The posting lists a starting pay range of $17.90–$23.90 per hour; the introductory description also lists $20 per hour plus a shift differential of $1.50 for second shift and $3.00 for third shift. The position is incentive eligible, with a targeted annual OIP bonus of 5%. Physical conditions include lifting up to 50 pounds and exerting 20 pounds of force; working in dusty environments and wearing respiratory protection; working in hot and cold conditions; spending about 80% of the shift on the feet and walking around the facility; climbing stairs and ladders; and, if necessary, climbing on top of rail cars. Required PPE must be worn. Employees must be clean-shaven when performing tasks requiring respiratory protection where a proper respirator seal is needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Proficiency with computer tools, including email and spreadsheets.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Willingness to accept accountability and work well in a team.
Willingness to cross-train in at least one other position and provide relief duties as needed.
After cross-training, ability to work alternate shifts of 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Ability to lift 50 pounds and exert 20 pounds of force.
Ability to work in dusty environments and wear respiratory protection, and to work in hot and cold conditions.
Ability to stand and walk around the facility for about 80% of the shift, ascend and descend stairs, and climb step and extension ladders and, if necessary, rail cars.
Ability to wear required PPE; clean-shaven condition is required for tasks where respiratory protection requires a proper seal.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of manufacturing or plant operations experience.

Responsibilities

Clean floors, equipment, roofs, and outdoor grounds in departments where needed.
Perform specialized cleaning tasks, including bin cleaning, rebolting sifters, and changing filter socks.
Perform basic process maintenance.
Cross-train in at least two different operator jobs and provide relief duties as needed.
Understand and follow personnel and equipment safety policies, sanitation policies, and Business Unit policies and procedures.
Carry out special duties assigned by management.
Work reliably, safely, and efficiently while adhering to food safety and environmental requirements.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Health and dependent savings accounts.
Life and disability programs.
Voluntary benefit programs.
Company-sponsored wellness programs.
Retirement savings with company match.
Team Member and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
Paid time off and paid holidays.
Employee Recognition Program with rewards (RAVE).
Annual targeted OIP bonus of 5%.
Shift differential for eligible employees assigned to and working shifts outside standard business hours.