Machine Operator

Do you want to work for a growing family-owned business that strives to build a better future through sustainability and innovation? Are you looking for a new challenge in a stable, fast-growing sector? Then look no further; LT Foods Americas wants you to join our team now! We offer competitive pay, benefits, vacation time, and more!  

The Machine Operator is responsible for proper set up, operation, and cleaning/sanitizing industrial food processing equipment in a food manufacturing environment, which includes a Sauce Mixer, Toyo (packaging machine) and Retort (industrial size food pressure cooker). The machine operator sets up equipment and materials for production, calibrates machines in accordance with product and packaging specifications, monitors equipment, adjusts machine parameters, verifies correct ingredients are mixed and maintains accurate documentation in accordance with FDA and other quality requirements. 

This position is divided into 3 Levels: 

Level 1 = demonstrated proficiency on 1 machine; 

Level 2 = demonstrated proficiency on 2 machines; 

Level 3 = demonstrated proficiency on all machines. 

Machine Operators are expected to learn and operate all food production equipment and machines. 

Key Responsibilities (or Principle Accountabilities):

• Move carts of product (weighing approximately 1000 lbs.) in and out of retorts
• Continuously monitor cook times and critical information for designated machine 
• Accurately scale ingredients per documentation 
• Report lot numbers, perform quality checks as per requirements and record data either manually or electronically 
• Report any process deviation in real time
• Review and confirm all critical factors are met for each cycle (chart & retort log)
• Maintain check weigh operation 
• Account for waste and report for all areas of operation
• Promptly communicate exceptions and batch information 
• Keep area clean and presentable at all times. 
• Actively participate in new hire and continuous training in order to thoroughly understand and execute all machine controls and operations
• Adhere to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety requirements and work safety protocol and requirements 

Minimum Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Able to communicate effectively in basic English (speak, read, write) 
• Previous manufacturing experience required; Food Manufacturing / experience handling raw materials preferred
• Must demonstrate basic mechanical aptitude and computer skills; Able to use touch screen equipment  
• Able to push/pull large carts of product in and out of retorts – see physical requirements
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to follow verbal and written instructions and processes and legibly complete documentation paperwork.
• Excellent work ethic and communication skills, with the ability to work both individually and as a contributing member of a team.
• Maintain attendance standards and be at work on time on a regular basis. 

Physical Demands:

• Frequent to continuous standing  
• Occasional to frequent manual loading and unloading Retort by pulling or pushing very heavy retorts cart that weighs approximately 1000 pounds is required. 
• Occasional to frequent reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting up to 50 pounds, grasping, walking, climbing, balancing, bending, stooping, kneeling and/or crouching.
• Ability to multitask, while displaying attention to detail, and prioritize in a fast paced, quickly changing environment

Work Environment:

This position is located in a food manufacturing plant. Noise level is moderate-high. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts.   Required to wear hair/beard net, hearing protection, safety glasses, hard hat, lab coat and safety shoes. Other PPE may be designated.