Production Operator, 1st Shift

Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages, dietary supplements, and pet food. With over 140 years of expertise, we believe nature got it right the first time. Join our fast-growing, international team and help us make natural, healthy food accessible worldwide.

Company: Oterra
Location: Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin
Department: Production
Shift: As assigned

Oterra is seeking a dependable and safety-conscious Production Operator to support manufacturing operations by producing, processing, and packaging high-quality color products. Under close supervision, the Production Operator operates and maintains production equipment, prepares materials, follows mixing and blending recipes, and ensures finished products meet established quality specifications.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, follows safety and sanitation procedures, and works collaboratively with Production and Quality Control teams to maintain efficient operations. Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.

• Set up, assemble, disassemble, operate, adjust, and clean production equipment used for blending, filling, processing, and packaging color products.
• Locate, prepare, transfer, and load raw materials and other ingredients for production.
• Move work-in-process (WIP) and finished products to filling stations, additional processing areas, storage, or shipping.
• Prepare packaging materials, including drums, pails, and boxes, and print and apply product labels.
• Collect product samples and deliver them to the Quality Control (QC) laboratory for testing.
• Work with QC technicians and supervisors to make necessary process adjustments to ensure products meet specifications.
• Complete required production paperwork and enter accurate information into production, laboratory, and inventory records.
• Follow production recipes, work instructions, and applicable SAP processes.
• Maintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), quality standards, sanitation requirements, and all company safety procedures.
• Communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors regarding production progress, product quality, and process concerns.

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous manufacturing or production experience preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Basic mathematical skills, including the ability to calculate and convert weights and volumes using the metric system.
• Ability to read and follow recipes and instructions for mixing and blending products.
• Ability to operate a forklift.
• Familiarity with basic hand tools, including hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches, for equipment assembly and disassembly.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with team members.
• Willingness and ability to learn and use required SAP functions.

This position operates in a manufacturing environment with frequent exposure to wet, humid, dusty, or noisy conditions; moving machinery; airborne particles or fumes; and caustic chemicals.

Employees must wear a company-issued uniform and required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. PPE may include coveralls, dust masks, hearing protection, hair and beard nets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes.

Some work may take place in small rooms requiring compliance with airlock procedures to prevent cross-contamination between departments.

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the workday.
• Lift and move materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Use hands and fingers to handle materials, tools, equipment, and machine controls.
• Roll bags, scoop materials,…