Advanced Machine Operator (Pitter)

Musco Family Olive Co; Tracy (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Musco Family Olive Company in California is seeking a Pitter Machine Operator II to set up, operate, and maintain pitting equipment and related processing systems. You will ensure production efficiency, perform changeovers, and monitor product quality while upholding GMP and food safety standards.

The role requires at least one year of experience with pitting or similar manufacturing machinery, ability to troubleshoot routine issues, and capacity to train and mentor less experienced operators.

Qualifications

• Experience operating pitting equipment or similar manufacturing machinery.
• Ability to independently set up, operate, adjust, and troubleshoot pitter equipment.
• Capability to perform machine changeovers and tooling changes with minimal supervision.
• Proven ability to train and mentor less experienced operators and maintain quality.

Responsibilities

• Independently set up and operate pitter machines and auxiliary equipment.
• Complete startup, shutdown, and product changeovers with minimal supervision.
• Change knives, cups, screens, and other tooling as required.
• Adjust machine settings based on fruit size, quality, and production needs.
• Train Pitter Machine Operator I staff and coordinate with teams on issues.

Skills

Pitter machine operation

Troubleshooting

Tooling changes

Quality control

Training others

Job description

About Musco Olive Company

At Musco Family Olive Company, we take pride in our heritage as a family-owned business dedicated to producing the highest quality olives in California. With a deep respect for tradition and a strong commitment to sustainability, we combine decades of expertise with a passion for excellence. Our goal is to deliver the finest olives while caring for our land, our community, and our people.

Why Join Us?

When you join Musco Family Olive Company, you become part of a family-owned business with a long-standing commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability. We are dedicated to creating a positive work environment where teamwork and integrity are at the forefront. Our focus on producing the finest quality olives is matched by our dedication to caring for our employees, fostering a workplace that values safety, responsibility, and a shared passion for excellence.

Reporting to the Production Manager or Team Lead, the Pitter Machine Operator II independently sets up, operates, adjusts, and troubleshoots pitting equipment and related processing systems. This position is responsible for maintaining production efficiency, performing changeovers, ensuring product quality, and training less experienced operators while supporting food safety and operational objectives.

Your Contribution to Excellence

• Perform all duties of the Pitter Machine Operator I.
• Independently set up and operate pitter machines and auxiliary equipment.
• Complete machine startup, shutdown, and product changeovers with minimal supervision.
• Change knives, cups, screens, slicer components, and other tooling as required.
• Adjust machine settings based on fruit size, quality characteristics, and production requirements.
• Troubleshoot routine mechanical and operational issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform minor repairs and equipment adjustments during production.
• Monitor machine performance and product quality and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Identify worn or damaged machine components and coordinate repairs.
• Maintain production flow to maximize throughput and minimize interruptions.
• Support preventative maintenance activities and equipment inspections.
• Accurately complete production records, downtime reports, and operational documentation.
• Train and coach Pitter Machine Operator I employees on equipment operation, safety requirements, and production procedures.
• Recommend process improvements to improve efficiency, product quality, and equipment reliability.
• Coordinate with production, quality, and maintenance personnel to address operating issues.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the department.
• Follow all GMP, food safety, quality, and safety requirements.
• Promptly report all food safety, quality, environmental, and social compliance concerns to management1.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

What you Bring to the Table:

• Meets all requirements of Pitter Machine Operator I.
• Minimum of one year of experience operating pitting equipment, processing equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery.
• Demonstrated ability to independently set up, operate, adjust, and troubleshoot pitter equipment and supporting production systems.
• Ability to perform machine changeovers, tooling changes, and equipment adjustments with minimal supervision.
• Ability to perform minor repairs, lubrication, and preventative maintenance activities.
• Ability to identify root causes of common machine and production issues and implement corrective actions.
• Ability to train and mentor less experienced operators on equipment operation, safety practices, and production procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks while maintaining production efficiency and quality standards.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams.

The Setting for Your Success

This position requires consistent physical activity in a manufacturing and agricultural environment. Employees are required to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 6-8+ hours per day), with frequent movement throughout the facility, including production, cannery, and outdoor farm areas.

The role involves frequent use of the hands and arms for tool operation, fine manipulation, and pushing or pulling equipment components, with reaching required both above and below shoulder level.

Employees must perform frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, and twisting to inspect, repair, and maintain equipment. The position also requires lifting and carrying materials of varying weights from floor to overhead level; items exceeding 51 lbs. require a team lift.