Process Machine Operator I

SunOpta Inc.; Ontario; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in food manufacturing is seeking an Equipment Operator. This full-time role involves the safe operation of extrusion equipment, performing QA checks, and ensuring compliance with production standards. The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma and experience in food processing, with strong problem-solving skills.

Benefits

Shift premiums

Benefits

Employee Assistance Program

RRSP Matching Program

Paid Time Off

Company Events

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor Processing (Extrusion) Equipment according to production schedule.
• Perform basic quality checks and document processing data.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, safety procedures, and food safety standards.

Skills

Critical Thinking

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Multi-tasking

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

ERP System

Job description

Job Description

Posted Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 4:00 AM

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.

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 of the Job:
•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-shoot 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:
•The 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 weekly rotating shifts: days, afternoons, 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)

Full-time, Permanent
Shift premiums
Benefits
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!

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