Production Operator

Our story goes back more than 150 years, to the chilly southern coast of Scandinavia. From our early success in Sweden and Denmark, we’ve grown into the world’s leading specialist producer of plant-based oils, employing more than 4,000 people all across the globe. We work with our customers to make the products you love even better. The oils we produce go into making your chocolate extra‑creamy or putting the crunch into your croissant.

And it’s not just food — we work across industries to make products that are higher quality, healthier and better for the planet. Everything we do is about Making Better Happen™.

AAKNewark

Port Newark, NJ

The Production Operator is involved with the successful daily operation of the facility on a 7‑day a week rotating shift basis. This requires attention to detail, good record keeping and the safe and efficient operation of equipment. This position is responsible for production and deliveries of refined vegetable oil, managing and adhering to the site’s production and shipping schedule. This position is also responsible for sanitation, inspection, lubrication and basic repairs of assigned production equipment.

• After training you will be expected to have the ability to operate all stations within the production department, including:
  Deodorization, Hydrogenation, Interesterification, Bleaching, Blending and the loading and offloading of tank wagons and railcars, completing all required documentation and oil analysis.
• Production and sanitation quotas dictated by the production schedule, the shipping schedule, operator routines, and the Shift Leader are expected to be met consistently while ensuring compliance to all safety and quality requirements.
• Perform cleaning, inspection, lubrication and basic repair activities of assigned production equipment on a routine basis.
• Perform housekeeping support to refinery, roads and grounds.
• Actively and enthusiastically participate in continuous improvement initiatives for the site.
• Must complete all training requested of you.
• Assist other refinery operators in tasks requiring additional manpower.
• Assist maintenance employees with their tasks as able and as requested.
• Use the forklift and other company tools and equipment in proper and safe method.
• Communicate effectively with the shift supervisor on issues and problems that may occur.
• Leave your worksite in the best condition possible anticipating a busy day.
• Use the computerized work order system and put in work orders for the shift supervisor to evaluate.
• Participate in company activities such as Safety Committee, Audit committees, employee task forces, etc. Contribute to the effort in controlling costs and minimizing wastage in pursuit of your daily work.
• Support goal of minimum part sparing consistent with production goals and local vendor support services.

• Lead the safety effort by personal example.
• Support full department compliance with safety rules to further our goal of 0 accidents and encouragement of reporting near misses.
• Support 0 contractor accidents during major construction or any time maintenance contractors are on site.
• Identify high‑risk safety/productivity issues and help remedy them.
• Adhere to SOPs and other work procedures as required.

• Associates Degree preferred, High School Diploma or GED Equivalent Required.
• Strong problem solving and math skills.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written), time management and organizational skills.
• 2‑3 years in related field or related experience in manufacturing facility.
• Demonstrated ability to work and thrive in a dynamic manufacturing with evolving priorities and constraints.
• Demonstrated ability to work as a team player.
• Strong interpersonal skills that facilitate collaboration and harmony with both internal and external stakeholders (co‑workers and non‑AAK affiliated personnel).
• Computer literate (Windows, Office, email).
• Ability to work a rotating, DuPont schedule (alternation between Day and Night Shift); 12‑hour working shifts.

• Career paths, training and development, e‑learning…