Distillation Technician

Distillation Technician

The Distillation Technician safely operates and monitors distillation equipment and related production processes to manufacture high-quality products that meet strict safety and production standards. This role performs hands-on production activities in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and company safety requirements, while maintaining accurate production documentation and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

This position works on 3rd shift, Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with minimal and voluntary overtime.

• Safely operate and monitor distillation equipment and related production processes to ensure products meet quality, safety, and production standards.
• Perform manual production tasks including material handling and staging, batching, mixing, blending, packaging, cleaning, and sanitizing in support of natural dairy flavor manufacturing.
• Follow all GMP, HACCP, and production procedures for assigned work and ensure they are accurately documented.
• Utilize computer-based inventory control systems to track materials, batches, and production activities.
• Complete quality documentation and maintain accurate production records in accordance with SOPs and regulatory requirements.
• Read and interpret batch records and production instructions to execute compounding and production steps precisely.
• Apply mechanical aptitude to set up, adjust, and troubleshoot production and distillation equipment as needed within defined safety parameters.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and food safety requirements, including HACCP, GMP, and Safe Quality Food (SQF) program practices.
• Collaborate with team members to meet production goals, support continuous improvement efforts, and maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
• Operate material handling equipment such as forklifts and scissor lifts safely and efficiently as required.
• Manage frequent changes and unexpected delays in production schedules, responding professionally and maintaining productivity under pressure.
• Follow precise instructions from SOPs, supervisors, and batch records to ensure consistent product quality and process reliability.
• Support cleaning and sanitizing of equipment and production areas to maintain hygienic conditions in a food flavor and probiotic ingredient facility.
• Participate in team-oriented initiatives and communication to foster a cooperative and supportive work culture.

• 6 months to 5 years of experience in food production, mixing, blending, compounding, or related manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience with mixing and blending processes; liquid or dairy blending experience is strongly preferred.
• Practical knowledge and intermediate understanding of food safety requirements, including HACCP.
• Basic understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in a food manufacturing setting.
• Basic understanding of Safe Quality Food (SQF) program principles.
• Ability to read and follow batch records and detailed production instructions accurately.
• Experience with quality documentation and maintaining precise production records.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to work with production and distillation equipment.
• Ability to operate a forklift and scissor lift safely.
• Strong attention to detail with a responsible, self-motivated approach to work.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear interaction with team members and documentation.
• Ability to follow precise instructions and adhere to established procedures and SOPs.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a production environment.
• Ability to manage frequent changes, unexpected delays, and work professionally under pressure while maintaining safety and quality standards.

• Prior experience in food manufacturing or food flavor production is highly beneficial.
• Experience working within HACCP and GMP frameworks in a regulated environment.
• Background in compounding or blending of food, liquid, or dairy products is a plus.
• Comfort using computer-based inventory control systems and production software.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks and shifting priorities.
• Demonstrated reliability and accountability in previous production or manufacturing roles.
• Ability to contribute to a team-oriented, family-style workplace culture.

This role is based in a food flavor and probiotic ingredient manufacturing facility with a strong focus on food safety, quality, and cleanliness. The environment is production-oriented, requiring frequent interaction with distillation systems, mixing and blending equipment, and material handling tools such as forklifts and scissor lifts. Work is performed on 3rd shift, Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., providing a consistent schedule with minimal and voluntary overtime.

The facility…