Production Operator - Encapsulation

Production Operator – Encapsulation (1st Shift)

Location: Wausau, WI (On-site)

Final date to receive applications: 1/30/25

Expected salary range: $19 an hour

In Novonesis we believe that solutions rooted in biology can help solve humanity’s biggest challenges. Since the company began more than a century ago, this vision has guided us, and we continue to impact the future through transformative biosolutions.

• Set up, operate, adjust, clean, and sanitize equipment to produce products within quality standards and according to procedures.
• Accurately measure and mix raw materials following batch production recipes and formulations.
• Perform minimal and preventive maintenance (PM) on equipment as required.
• Assist others in trained areas as needed by production demands or supervisor direction.
• Print and apply labels to product, verify lot and batch numbers, and maintain accurate production records and equipment logs.
• Assist in developing and improving SOPs.
• Follow all workplace safety and sanitization protocols and ensure safe operation of equipment at all times.
• Participate in safety training and report incidents or hazards immediately.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities using Lean concepts and principles.
• Adhere to Powered Air‑Purifying Respirator (PAPR) requirements when working in environments with airborne contaminants or hazardous materials.
• Maintain required PAPR certification and ensure proper care and usage of all personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Take necessary samples for QC testing as needed.
• Adhere to guidelines set forth by religious dietary law certifications (Kosher and Halal).

• Ability to read, write and speak English.
• Ability to apply basic mathematical concepts to the production process, including conversion of weight and volume in the metric system.
• Ability to read and follow a production journal to produce batches.
• Ability to operate a pallet walker and/or forklift (preferred).
• Ability to use basic hand tools (hammer, screwdriver, wrench) for assembly and disassembly of equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with co‑workers regarding the status of the production process.
• Basic computer skills; ERP system knowledge (SAP) preferred.
• High School Diploma or GED, with preferred experience in a production environment.

• 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution.
• Minimum of 3 weeks of vacation plus 12 holidays and 2 weeks of Wellness Time.
• Health, Dental, Vision & Life insurance.
• Healthcare savings account option.
• Employee assistance program.
• Parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• All benefits begin on your first day.

The work environment is a production unit that includes frequent exposures to wet, humid, dusty, or loud conditions, moving machine parts, fumes or airborne particles and chemicals. Company‑issued personal protective equipment is expected to be worn at all times inside the production environment, which may include dust masks/PAPRs, hearing protection, hair/beard nets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes. Work may occur in small rooms with air‑lock compliance to avoid interdepartmental contamination.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, talk, hear, lift, and/or move materials or equipment up to 50 lbs., use hands to finger, handle objects, tools or controls, and roll bags. Occasionally required to scoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, and use feet to operate machinery. Specific vision abilities required include vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Novonesis is committed to fostering a unique community by embracing and respecting differences. We make all employment decisions based on business needs, ensuring that every individual can thrive, regardless of identity or background such as ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. All qualified applicants are considered for employment, and we provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.