Process Machine Operator I

SunOpta; Niagara-on-the-Lake; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing company in Niagara-on-the-Lake is seeking an Equipment Operator to ensure the safe operation of processing equipment. The ideal candidate must have a high school diploma and 2 years of experience in food manufacturing. Responsibilities include monitoring equipment and performing QC checks. The role requires adherence to safety standards and ability to work rotating shifts. Competitive benefits include shift premiums and an employee assistance program.

Benefits

Shift premiums

Employee Assistance Program

RRSP Matching Program

Paid Time Off

Company Events

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in a food manufacturing environment, specifically in processing.
• Strong knowledge of processing/extruder manufacturing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate Processing (Extrusion) Equipment safely.
• Monitor and adjust equipment according to production schedule.
• Perform basic QC Checks, and document equipment downtime and throughput.

Skills

Critical thinking

Good verbal skills

Good written skills

Ability to multitask

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

About SunOpta

SunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers’ growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.

Job Summary

This position is responsible for the safe operation of the Processing (Extrusion) Equipment, including but not limited to the following: Mixing & Batching Tank Stations, Drum and Tote Transfer Pumps, Evaporator, Extruder, Cooling Tunnels and Guillotines.

Essential Functions

• Set‑up / disassemble defined Processing (Extrusion) Equipment when required, i.e., Start‑up/Shutdown.
• Monitor and adjust Processing Equipment to maintain processing variables in accordance with pre‑determined production schedule.
• Trouble‑shut equipment and processing deficiencies and implement corrective action.
• Ensure/verify correct Batch ingredients are being utilized according to production schedule.
• Perform basic QC Checks; Flavour and Colour Checks, record lot numbers and ingredients utilized.
• Measure and reduce scrap and rework.
• Record and document equipment downtime and throughput.
• Record Processing Data utilizing ERP System.
• Clean and sanitize primary processing equipment when required.
• Transport ingredients and materials throughout plant manually and or using powered equipment.
• Adheres to company GMP’s (good manufacturing practices), safety procedures and all other quality processes.
• Comply all SunOpta Quality and food safety standards, HACCP, GMPs, Organic, GFCO, SQF, Kosher certificate and customer requirements.
• Wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) when required.
• The backup for this role is an alternate Process Machine Operator.
• All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum High School
• 2 years of experience in the food manufacturing environment, specifically processing area(s)

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of processing/extruder manufacturing equipment

Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to use critical thinking to plan and problem‑solve
• Good verbal, written and multi‑tasking skills, can do attitude

Additional Considerations

Location for this role is St. Davids, Ontario.

Work Environment / Physical Demands

• 100% of the work is performed in a production environment
• Must be available to work rotating 12 hr shifts: days, nights
• Must be available to work weekends
• Must be able to stand/walk for majority of the shift
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision or with a team
• Competency in performing multiple tasks
• Ability to organize and prioritize
• Must have reliable transportation (location is off bus route)

Benefits

• Full‑time, Permanent
• Shift premiums
• Employee Assistance Program
• RRSP Matching Program
• Paid Time Off
• Company Events

SunOpta Overview

SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is an innovative and sustainable manufacturer fueling the future of food. With roots tracing back over 50 years, SunOpta drives growth for today’s leading brands by serving as a trusted innovation partner and value‑added manufacturer, crafting organic, plant‑based beverages, fruit snacks, nutritional beverages, broths and tea products sold through retail, club, foodservice and e‑commerce channels. Alongside the company’s commitment to top brands, retailers and coffee shops, SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream®, and West Life™. For more information, visit SunOpta and LinkedIn.

SunOpta is looking for talented individuals that demonstrate our most valued behaviors: Passion, Dedication, Speed, Entrepreneurship, Customer‑Centricity, and Problem‑Solver, to help create a brighter, healthier, and sustainable future of food! Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Opportunity Employer

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED