What are the responsibilities and job description for the Yogurt Machine Operator position at Willamette Egg Farm?
Department:
Location: Canby, OR
Reports To:
Job Type: Full-time
Compensation:
Job Summary
The Yogurt Production Operator is responsible for ensuring the proper set up, operation and monitoring of various packaging equipment. This includes but is not limited to operating packaging equipment, material handling equipment, stretch wrap, forklifts, and hand trucks safely and properly. Also, will be responsible for loading and unloading totes onto racks in the cooler in a safe and effective manner. The Yogurt production operator will report directly to the Yogurt Supervisor.
Essential Job Functions
- Daily set up and sanitizing of equipment, start production after pre-op is complete.
- Capable of effectively performing Preop and effectively correcting problems observed before starting production.
- Make labels for daily production (QA verifies) (only if trained to do so, see training register)
- Follow written safety GMP and SOP, SSOP procedures.
- Verify and record that metal detector is functioning prior to start up, and every 4 hours during production, capable of recalibrating detector as needed.
- Produce frozen yogurt drops utilizing established adjusting procedures to attain desired characteristics and results per written specifications
- Record lot numbers for all yogurt, packaging, and nitrogen used during shift.
- Document product and room temperatures and machine settings on designated logs at times required (hours or every 30 minutes), report out of spec readings to department head
- Pull required samples, as required, during each production shift
- Follow written procedures for hooking up totes throughout production day as needed
- Palletize product and transport promptly to blast freezer using pallet jack and forklift, transport packaging supplies from packaging warehouse as needed (only if trained to do so, see training register)
- Tear down and disassemble equipment for clean up
- Perform all cleaning including CIP, COP and hand wash functions, and compressed air cleaning. Titrate and record solution strengths for all cleaning and sanitizing solutions.
- Perform basic maintenance /light work on equipment as needed, inform department head or maintenance if problems exceed abilities (only if trained to do so, see training register)
- Report any out of spec product or abnormal situations to department head
- Actively participate in and promote our safety culture by following safe work practices and adhering to all safety policies and procedures. Responsible for reporting all incidents, accidents and observations of unsafe acts or conditions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
- Ability to read, write and speak simple sentences.
- Ability to add and subtract two-digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED or equivalent.
- Must be able to work nights, weekends and holidays as needed
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Able to work in various climate conditions including extreme heat and cold environments, walking, standing, and sitting for long periods of time.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience as a production operator.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish
Work Environment
The Yogurt Production Operator works in a fast-paced food manufacturing facility, primarily in the production and packaging areas. The environment is temperature-controlled, with exposure to both cool and warm conditions, particularly when working in the cooler or near processing equipment. The role involves constant movement, including standing, walking, and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs. Operators must be comfortable working with various types of machinery and equipment, including packaging lines, material handling equipment, and forklifts. The work area may be noisy due to production machinery, and there may be exposure to food-grade chemicals used in cleaning and sanitizing processes. Safety is a top priority, requiring strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and food safety protocols. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hairnets, gloves, and safety shoes are required. The position may involve working in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to meet production demands. Despite these challenges, the role offers opportunities for skill development and contribution to a vital part of the food production industry.
About Us:
Versova is one of the largest egg producers in the United States, bringing together family-owned farms in Iowa, Ohio, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. With over six decades of industry experience, our team of more than 2,000 employees is dedicated to exceptional flock care, environmental stewardship, and producing safe, high-quality eggs. More than just a workplace, Versova is a team built on shared values, working together to enrich our communities and uphold the highest ethical standards.
As a family of companies and a company of families, we are guided by a strong set of Core Values: Recognition, Initiative, Safety & Security, Service, Community, Respect, Integrity, Ownership, and Excellence. These values drive our commitment to responsible employment, sustainability, and industry innovation. When you join Versova, you become part of something bigger - working together to lead the future of egg production with integrity and excellence.
Benefits:
- Regular performance reviews
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- HSA with company match
- Paid time Off
- Paid Holidays
- 401K with company match
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program
Posting Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.
Disclosure
This job description is not exhaustive, as employees may perform additional related duties as needed. Employment is based on an 'at-will' basis.
Compensation: 19.00