Auto Grader Operator

Description

Alsum Farms & Produce Inc., a grower, packer, and shipper of potatoes & onions located in Friesland, WI is looking for a full-time Auto Grader Operator. The Auto Grader Operator ensures potatoes are accurately sorted by operating and maintaining automated grading equipment. This role involves monitoring system performance, conducting quality checks, troubleshooting minor issues, and performing routine maintenance to keep operations running smoothly. The ideal candidate will prioritize safety, efficiency, and teamwork to meet production goals while adhering to food safety and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate automated potato grading machines efficiently and safely
• Monitor system performance and make necessary adjustments to ensure accurate grading
• Troubleshoot minor issues, escalating complex problems to the maintenance team
• Inspect graded potatoes to ensure compliance with quality standards
• Sort and discard potatoes that do not meet size, weight, or quality requirements
• Perform periodic calibration checks to maintain grading accuracy
• Regularly clean and maintain grading equipment to ensure optimal performance
• Report maintenance or repair needs to the appropriate team
• Lubricate machinery and monitor for wear and tear
• Follow all safety protocols while operating machinery and handling materials
• Adhere to food safety and sanitation regulations
• Report safety hazards to supervisors immediately
• Maintain accurate records of grading process, production quantities, and equipment malfunctions
• Report daily production totals and quality control issues to management
• Work with operators, supervisors, and quality control teams to achieve production goals
• Participate in team meetings for process improvements and troubleshooting
• Perform other related duties as necessary or assigned

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent (technical or vocational training in machinery operation is a plus)
• Previous experience with automated machinery or in a production environment preferred

Job Details:

Job Type: Full-time

Job Schedule: Monday through Friday; 6:00am to 2:30pm

Work Location: Friesland, WI

Requirements

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic machine issues
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards is a plus
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet production targets
• Good communication skills and teamwork ability
• Self-motivated and able to function as part of a team
• Ability to utilize Human Resource Information System (HRIS) software

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Prolonged periods standing and walking 
• Various repetitive movements and good manual dexterity to perform required tasks
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, including cold environments
• Exposure to airborne particles or fumes
• Expected to remain alert and attentive
• Good eyesight to ensure that potatoes are being graded to the best of the employee’s ability
• Stairs will need to be climbed throughout the day to access the grading line
• Must wear safety glasses and hearing protection in designated areas
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Alsum Benefits

Alsum Farms & Produce offers its full-time (30 hours or more) employees:

• Employer contributed health plan
• Employer paid life insurance
• Voluntary dental, life, disability, and vision insurance
• Onsite fitness center/gym membership reimbursement
• Vacation and holiday pay
• Profit sharing
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee discounts
• Educational assistance program

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace