About this role

# Job Title: Production Operator I
Department: Production - Manufacturing
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Production Manager
Position Summary
We are seeking a dedicated Production Operator I to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will prepare simple recipes, assist experienced operators with equipment setup, and support batch processing from initial prep through final product transfer. You will play a vital role in maintaining strict food safety standards, operating industrial machinery, and keeping work areas clean.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation: Tend, control, and monitor equipment such as kettles, cookers, vats, boilers, and pumps. Set temperature, pressure, and time controls according to specifications. Recipe Execution: Read work orders, recipes, and formulas. Accurately measure, weigh, and load raw ingredients into cooking equipment. Quality Assurance: Examine product samples during production for color, content, viscosity, acidity, and temperature. Record production readings, batch logs, and test data. Sanitation & Maintenance: Clean, wash, and sanitize cooking equipment and production areas using hoses and sterilizing solutions. Safety & Inspection: Monitor machinery dials, gauges, and alarms. Safely shut down equipment when issues arise and immediately report food safety or quality concerns to management. Material Handling: Stir, box, and move finished materials to cooling and storage areas.
Qualifications & Requirements Education: High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Experience: 1–2 years of food manufacturing experience in a commercial or industrial facility. Industry Knowledge: Understanding of food safety regulations and standards (FDA, GMP, SQF, HACCP). Technical Skills: Familiarity with industrial cooking equipment (boilers, kettles, forming machines, floor scales, hand trucks) and basic computer/math skills (Excel, Outlook). Certifications: Ability to obtain a forklift certification.
Physical & Environmental Demands Ability to frequently stand, walk, grasp, and move throughout an 8-hour shift. Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. unassisted. Comfortable working around machinery, varying temperatures, and humidity levels typical of a commercial food production environment.
Compensation / Pay Rate (Up to): $16.00 - $16.00 Per Hour