Packaging Operator

This role is a core position in the packaging area that requires the knowledge and skills to accurately blend the finished kibble safely into high quality finished product in the proper packaging mix and according to schedule. This role performs preventative maintenance, mechanically troubleshoots system equipment, and is responsible to train other packaging associates.

• Individuals who are motivated to help others and work on your own initiative
• Meets and exceeds expected levels of production and quality
• Can work methodically and meet deadlines
• Problem solving/troubleshooting as necessary
• Performs a variety of tasks related to our operations as needed
• Strong math, communication, reading and writing skills

Responsible for the total operation of any combination of the following unit operations:

• Performing all quality checks, maintaining conformance reports and systems logs, troubleshooting all aspects of each system, maintaining area in a clean, orderly manner
• Big Bag Line operation- operate a big bag line from bunkers through stretch wrapper to schedule, do changeovers, troubleshoot lines, understand complete operation of the GUI for operating blending systems for packaging lines.
• Small Bag Line operation- operate a small bag line from bunkers through stretch wrappers to schedule, do changeovers, troubleshoot lines, understand complete operation of the GUI for operating blending systems for packaging lines
• Packaging Flex - Provides packaging materials to lines as needed. Stage materials for shift. Return unused materials to storage after run is complete. Perform all JDA functions as required.
• Understand all families produced and identify each kibble for each family
• Maintain a clean, safe work environment that promotes associate safety and product integrity.
• Improve operations through individual and group problem solving and provide leadership in solving problems on the floor and in meetings.
• Promote high quality team environment through effective teamwork and self-management with a positive attitude.
• Perform preventative maintenance and downtime maintenance of area equipment and help make incremental improvements.
• Help train other area associates as needed in all aspects of operations such as line operation, palletizers, MIS systems, SQC, PC's, HAACP, CCP and repair of equipment.
• Responsible for communicating and escalating any quality and food safety concerns to site management.
• Participate in setting strategy for the packaging system to ensure meeting or exceeding production schedule in the most efficient manner possible.
• Troubleshoot packaging system to optimize performance and take corrective action to ensure product quality while minimizing unnecessary downtime.
• Assist maintenance and engineering to improve and upgrade current systems and equipment and provide input on new projects.
• Assist Research and Development on new packaging systems and improving current ones.
• Prepare and maintain SOP's and training modules.

• Assist Warehouse/Shipping functions as needed and available.
• Participate in site safety program and actively look for ways to improve site and area safety.
• Other similar duties as assigned.

• Must not be afraid of heights and capable of working at elevated heights
• Must not be unusually sensitive to chemicals
• Vision correctable to 20/20 (contact lenses not recommended).
• Must be able to stand on your feet on a concrete floor for long periods of time.
• Wearing proper personal protective equipment (hair net, bump cap, ear plugs, safety shoes, uniform, etc.)
• Bending, stooping, twist, turn, standing for extended time periods, reaching, climbing stairs, and lifting to 55 lbs.
• Must be able to adapt to temperature and environmental extremes such as hot to cold, dust dirt and chemicals
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment with a positive attitude and minimal supervision
• Forklift assignments require OSHA certification and getting on and off frequently

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent education
• Basic knowledge of personal computers…