Freeze Dry Utility Operator

Purpose of the Position

Supports and backs up operators in the freeze dry production process according to operational manuals and quality criteria.

• Produces the required quantity of batched recipes within established specifications and tolerances and according to production plan.
• Inspects dry ingredient materials and other raw materials, as well as in process materials as necessary ensuring compliance with function, quality, and recipe specifications.
• Maintains logs and records of units produced including a record of errors resulting in rejected/discarded materials.
• Performs pre‑operational equipment, preventative maintenance tasks, and process inspections.
• Performs quality and sanitation functions per the Quality Program and Master Sanitation Schedule.
• Reports maintenance and quality opportunities with shift supervisors and/or managers.
• Interfaces with plant ERP system to assure inventory control, lot traceability, and tracking.
• Maintains a clean, safe, orderly work area.

• Supports Freeze Dry Operator, learning their role and providing a variety of tasks both mechanical and manual in nature.
• Back‑up Freeze Dry Operator and performs Freeze Dry Operator tasks.
• Responsible for loading and unloading of auto‑panner, loading, and unloading of freeze dryers and loading combos of finished product and supporting operators.
• Responsible for tray washing operation, as well as sanitation on the post pasteurization side.
• Operates all equipment associated with freeze dry process which includes, but is not limited to, freeze dryer, combo filling and auto‑panner.
• Responsible for housekeeping of the drying machine(s) and plant area (e.g., sweeping, removing trash, cleaning the machine at the end of the shift, preparing for next shift's production).
• Finalizes any paperwork during the shift in an accurate, clear, and concise manner.
• Utilizes ERP System for moving in‑process materials and products into and out of inventory.
• Follows all quality guidelines, Master Sanitation Schedules, and maintains a food‑safe, sanitary environment.
• Supports other lines, as necessary.
• Disposes of waste materials and other items as required.
• Operates forklift as necessary.
• Supports other process functions as necessary during the day to maximize efficiency of plant.

• Executes the North Freeze Dry Vision, Mission, and Values (VMV’s) at all times.
• Promotes a positive, proactive environment where input from team members is valued and encouraged.
• Provides back‑up support for other roles, as necessary.
• Available for overtime on a scheduled or call‑in/call‑back basis, as necessary.
• Other duties as assigned by the manager/supervisor.

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Six months working experience in a manufacturing/production facility preferred.
• Ability to follow proper food safety, quality and workplace safety procedures and requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to follow oral and written instruction.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a team environment.
• Ability to lift to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods of time.
• Forklift certification preferred, or willing to obtain.
• Works well in a team environment.
• Mechanically inclined, drive yourself to continually grow and develop your role.
• Ability to adapt and accommodate change.

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance including employees, child(ren), spouse and family coverage.
• Ancillary benefits include Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, and Short‑ and Long‑Term Disability coverage.
• 401(K) Program available with a company match up to 4%.
• Paid Time Off accruing on your first day and Paid Personal Days.
• 7 Company Paid Holidays.

The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This job operates within a plant manufacturing environment. The…