Production Operator

The primary role of the Production Machine Operator position is the safe and efficient operation of the equipment and product testing.

The Production Machine Operator is a member of the Vitalus team and as such, participates in team efforts to achieve department goals, and provides support to other roles within the dairy operations as required.

This position requires rotating shift-work, including weekends and holiday rotations in a 24 / 7 operation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Production

• Set up, operate, shut down and CIP plant equipment
• The operation, and shut down dryer at the end of the production run.
• Operate and troubleshoot the equipment in order to complete daily targets.
• Complete required documentation. I.E. record production information on batch sheets
• Package and palletize finished product.

Quality Control

• Follow all standard operating procedures (SOP’s) and regulatory requirements.
• Perform required in-process product testing and record test results
• Ensure samples for the lab are taken and submitted
• Run cleaning and sanitation procedures (CIPs & COPs) on all equipment after production

Safety & Environment

• Adhere to all safety practices and protocols related to job responsibilities and tasks including wearing all PPE when handling chemicals
• Act in accordance with company policies related to personal and group health and safety practices and procedure

Continuous Improvement

Engage in permanent and continuous learning by participating in on-job, internal and / or external training programs. Apply learnings to work environment and role.

COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills, Ability)

• Experience working with machinery, preferably within food processing / manufacturing;
• Able to understand and follow detailed instructions (solid English language skills);
• Able to lift 25kg several times a day;
• Have operated manual, power pallet jacks, and / or forklifts;
• Results-oriented;
• Contributes to achieving team goals;
• Solid work ethic;
• Willing to work shift work;
• Someone with safe work record you care about keeping yourself and co-workers safe;
• Able to work independently without ongoing directions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma and two years’ experience in a manufacturing environment related to food or a similar industry. Dryer operation and / or dairy plant experience an asset.
• Experience with HACCP or other quality systems an asset.
• Experience in operating manual and power pallet jacks and forklifts.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Fluent English (verbal and written communication skills) with the ability to follow and give clear instructions.
• Highly detail-oriented.
• Able to lift 25 kg (55 lbs.)
• Capability to work independently without constant supervision.
• Basic proficiency in MS Word, MS Outlook, and spreadsheet / database (MS Excel).

NOC 9461