Maintenance and Production Operator Level I

Description

Classification: Non-Exempt

Reports To: Operations Manager

Serve as a dual-role team member responsible for both performing production to meet sales demand to customer specifications, and performing maintenance and repairs on processing equipment, building systems, and facility infrastructure. This position requires the ability to shift between production operations and maintenance duties based on business needs.

• Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair on all processing and production equipment.
• Perform start-up procedures, make operational adjustments, remove blades, and dis‑mantle equipment as needed.
• Demonstrate ability and knowledge of Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures, including hazard assessment and proper release or blocking of stored energy. Know the location of all lockouts on all machines in assigned areas.
• Hydraulic Systems:
  Maintain and troubleshoot pumps, motors, mechanical and solenoid valves, and piping circuits.
• Pneumatic Systems:
  Maintain and troubleshoot cylinders, air motors, control valves, and piping. Interpret pneumatic schematics.
• Welding & Fabrication:
  Proficiently use MIG and TIG welding. Operate shop fabrication tools including grinders, drill press, cut‑off saws, band saws, pipe threader, hydraulic press, and hose press. Basic understanding of mill and lathe operation.
• Electrical:
  Basic understanding of single‑phase and three‑phase power (110V, 230V) and micro‑switches.
• Dismantle and repair sanitation equipment including pressure washers, boiler systems, hot water heaters, spray guns, and unloader valves.

• Perform building repairs and upkeep including water systems, electrical systems, and general facility infrastructure.
• Add chemicals to water treatment locations including boiler water treatment, process softeners, and process water chlorination systems.
• Know chemical symbols and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) locations.
• Identify and report maintenance needs and safety hazards throughout the facility.

• Set up, operate, and break down production line equipment including dicers, check weighers, metal detectors, freeze‑dryers, and other processing machinery.
• Run production according to sales demand, batch records, production schedules, and product/customer specifications.
• Monitor production line flow and make adjustments to maintain efficiency and through‑put.
• Perform changeovers between production runs, including cleaning and sanitizing equipment.
• Weigh, package, label, and palletize finished product according to specifications.
• Perform in‑process checks such as weights, temperatures, and visual inspections.
• Understand and follow HACCP plans and all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with sanitation standards.
• Complete and document all required production records and paperwork.

• Communicate effectively with employees at all levels through written, verbal, and face‑to‑face interaction.
• Assist other team members in the completion of work.
• Adhere to all safety standards and procedures.
• Perform various clerical duties as assigned, including data entry and record keeping.
• Perform basic math as part of daily duties.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Miscellaneous duties as assigned.

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as equipment manuals, production sched-ules, safety rules, regulations, and operating instructions.
• Ability to shift between production and maintenance tasks and prioritize based on business needs.
• Ability to complete tasks quickly and accurately.
• Ability to apply common sense to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to communicate respectfully and professionally and be a positive influence in a workgroup.
• Ability to train others in job functions.
• Strong record keeping and organizational skills.
• Maintain exemplary attendance.
• Demonstrate a positive attitude and ability to work well with others.

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

The worker is frequently…