Production Operator

About the position

Location: Onsite at Hugoton, KS Factory

This position will start on 1st shift but as production increases will be assigned to the 2nd shift. All full-time employees are eligible for Flora Food Group's Generous Benefit Package from day 1, accrue 160 hours of Paid Time Off, 10 Paid Holidays, and 2 Personal Holidays each year. After 90 days all full-time employees are eligible for the company 401k Plan which the company matches dollar for dollar up to 5%; after 1 year an additional 4% is received for profit sharing.

The Operator will operate production systems and support equipment to achieve process targets in accordance with the production plan. They will have the ability to troubleshoot, make minor repairs, and coordinate support requirements. The Operator is directly responsible for system efficiencies. They will possess good communication skills, both verbal and written. Work with others to accomplish the production demands as outlined in the schedule and ensure that GMP's and performance measures are tracked and met.

• Assembles pipes, connects pumps and other equipment based on process.
• Takes pH and temperature on product to control the process.
• Perform daily/ as needed assembly and cleaning, swabbing, and sanitizing of equipment
• Makes sure machinery runs efficiently and detects malfunctions when they occur.
• Runs machinery based on process, targeted moisture, and salt content, or other ingredients
• Adjust machine settings, as needed.
• Enters proper code dates, uses appropriate packaging such as film, label, boxes, tape.
• Completes all quality and accounting paperwork.
• Prepares ingredients, records lot # on make sheet and/or accounting sheet.
• Performs environmental cleaning following company Quality Plan.
• Follows all procedures and GMPs, along with company Safety and Quality Plan.
• Collects samples for Quality Assurance, as needed.
• Operate butter packing equipment within specifications of packaging standards
• Hand pack into boxes and prepare for shipment, as needed
• Assist with palletizing and shrink-wrapping pallets to prepare for shipping.
• Operates CIP system to clean and sanitize equipment as needed.
• Perform tear down and sanitation of butter packager, printer, case packer, butter boat, churn, and any other specific butter room equipment to assure equipment and room is sanitary and fully operational prior to start of production.
• Follow and comply with applicable good manufacturing, safety and quality assurance practices.
• General housekeeping, cleaning, and sanitizing all other areas and equipment.
• Assist with general plant cleaning as needed.
• Pull products for QA sampling, when requested
• Normally receives little instruction on routine work, general instructions on new assignments.
• Must be fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the Plant.
• Attends various mandatory safety and departmental meetings.
• Maintains neat and accurate records and logs in accordance with FDA and GMP's.
• Effectively works in a team setting, supporting team goals and objectives.
• When cream is not available for the churning process, will assist other personnel and/or departments as needed and will perform other duties essential to the department as requested.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

So, what does it take to be successful in this role?

• 18 years or older
• 6 plus months of solid work experience, preferably food/dairy manufacturing environment
• Ability to work on elevated spaces at least 8ft from the ground.
• Verbal and written communication skills; ability to follow instructions and to clearly express ideas in a concise and professional manner.
• Ability to work with required sanitation chemicals.
• Ability to frequently lift/carry up to 40 pounds, occasionally lift up to 50 pounds with assistance, ability to push/pull up to 2,500 pounds using material handling equipment.
• Ability to operate material handling equipment, and obtain certifications
• Ability to stand of extended periods of time.
• Ability to occasionally bend, twist/turn, reach above shoulders, and climb throughout the shift as needed
• Basic computer skills preferred
• Ability to work weekends and flexible schedules.
• Ability to follow manufacturer's specifications and direction
• Basic understanding of machine operations.
• Understanding of good manufacturing practices.
• Strong attention to detail.

What's next

If this position sounds interesting, please hit the apply button now! If you have additional questions, you can send me, Becky Edwards, HRBP, an email at becky.edwards@florafg.com