F2 1st Grinder Operator

Description

Grinder Operator – Golden State Foods – Opelika, AL – Full‑time | Food Manufacturing | PM Shift

Golden State Foods (GSF) is a leading food manufacturing company with over 70 years of experience producing high‑quality beef patties and protein products for top quick‑service restaurant (QSR) brands. The USDA‑inspected facility in Opelika, AL delivers billions of hamburger patties annually, backed by strict food safety standards and award‑winning quality. GSF is committed to innovation, sustainability, and creating safe, reliable careers in food production.

We are hiring a Grinder Operator to join our protein production team at our state‑of‑the‑art food manufacturing plant in Opelika, AL. In this hands‑on role you will operate meat grinders, conveyors, and related equipment to process raw beef according to quality and safety standards.

• Operate industrial meat grinders and conveyor systems in accordance with food safety and quality standards.
• Follow safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), to ensure safe operation of grinders and conveyors.
• Set up and break down grinder and conveyor equipment, ensuring all parts are properly assembled and aligned.
• Read and follow raw‑material line‑up sheets to ensure proper ingredient selection.
• Inspect raw materials before grinding and follow established procedures for handling defects.
• Monitor meat texture, cut quality, and grinder speed during production; adjust or replace knives and plates as needed.
• Drive a forklift to transport and load raw materials onto combo dumpers.
• Perform sanitation duties, including cleaning equipment and immediate removal of floor scraps to prevent hazards.
• Monitor and verify functionality of metal detectors and carry out procedures according to GSF’s metal detection program.
• Communicate with the Blender Operator and other team members to coordinate workflow and product quality.
• Recognize and report mechanical malfunctions or unsafe conditions to leadership.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Perform other duties as assigned to support 24/7 production operations.

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Prior experience in food manufacturing or meat processing is strongly preferred.
• Forklift certification preferred or willingness to obtain certification.

• Ability to follow written procedures, line‑up sheets, and safety protocols.
• Basic math and reading comprehension skills.
• Mechanically inclined with the ability to identify equipment issues.
• Ability to lift 80 lbs. and stand, bend, twist, and reach for long periods.
• Comfortable working in cold (45°F or below), fast‑paced environments.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safe, efficient operations.

• Competitive pay and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for career development and advancement.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. GSF values diverse perspectives and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every person can thrive, be respected, supported, and empowered.