Press Operator

Description

Department: Operations
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Salary/Wage Range: $21-25 per hour, rate based on experience
Reports to: Operations Manager

The Press Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of fruit pressing equipment used in the production of cider. This position works as part of the Operations team to ensure fruit is processed efficiently, safely, and according to established quality standards and production schedules.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, attentive to detail, comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment, and willing to learn all aspects of the pressing process. The Press Operator will receive hands-on training and is expected to develop proficiency in press operation, equipment cleaning, lubrication, preventative maintenance, sulfite additions, and apple dumping.

As experience and proficiency increase, the employee may be trained in additional production areas and take on greater responsibility within the Operations department.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Safely operate fruit pressing equipment according to established SOPs and production schedules.
• Monitor press operation and make routine adjustments to maintain efficient production and product quality.
• Load and unload fruit and operate associated equipment as trained.
• Monitor equipment for unusual sounds, leaks, jams, or other operating issues and communicate problems to management.
• Maintain accurate production records and communicate production information to the Operations team.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of pressing equipment.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and quality-control procedures.
• Minimize product loss and maximize efficient use of fruit, water, energy, and other resources.

• Clean and sanitize presses, conveyors, pumps, hoses, tanks, floors, and other production equipment as required.
• Follow established cleaning and sanitation procedures and chemical-handling requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the production shift.

• Perform routine lubrication of equipment as trained.
• Assist with preventative maintenance activities.
• Identify and report equipment issues before they become larger production or safety problems.
• Maintain tools and equipment in an organized and serviceable condition.

• Perform sulfite additions according to established SOPs and production requirements after completing required training.
• Accurately measure and document additions.
• Follow all chemical-handling, PPE, and safety requirements.

• Safely operate the apple dumper and associated equipment.
• Monitor the flow of fruit into the pressing process.
• Maintain proper production flow and communicate any issues with fruit quality or equipment operation.
• Assist with cleaning and sanitation of the apple dumper and surrounding work area.

• None.
• May assist and work cooperatively with other Operations employees.
• As proficiency increases, may assist with training on specific tasks under the direction of the Operations Manager or designated trainer.

The work environment can be cold, wet, hot, and noisy. Employees may work around moving mechanical equipment, lift truck traffic, elevated areas, wet surfaces, fumes, and cleaning chemicals. Employees may occasionally work in or around confined spaces such as fermenting vessels and tanks.

The position requires the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and strict adherence to company safety, food safety, and sanitation procedures.

The…