Batch Mixer/Processing Operator 1st Shift

Woodland Gourmet; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 27,552 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Job summary

Woodland Gourmet is seeking a Batch Mixer / Processing Operator to safely operate blending, processing, and packaging equipment in our dry powder food production facility. The role requires weighing ingredients, following GMP/HACCP standards, and meticulous production documentation.

This non-exempt, full-time position reports to the Production Supervisor. Candidates should have at least 2 years of hands-on equipment operation experience, the ability to lift 50 pounds, and flexible hours; a

Qualifications

• Basic computer skills and ability to read/interpret documents.
• Ability to read, weigh, batch calculations, and follow procedures.
• Experience operating blending and packaging equipment a plus.
• GMP/HACCP knowledge and food safety practices preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor industrial blenders, grinders, and packaging equipment.
• Follow batch records and formulas; load raw ingredients.
• Perform changeovers, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maintain efficiency.
• Adhere to production schedule and report inefficiencies for improvement.
• Maintain clean, safe work areas and comply with GMPs/HACCP.

Skills

Basic computer skills

Reading & writing English

Arithmetic basics

Read safety docs

Scale operations basics

Multitasking

Communication

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Equipment adjustments

Maintenance collaboration

Job description

Title: Batch Mixer / Processing Operator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Production Supervisor
Supervises: N/A
Travel: As needed according to the essential functions of the position
Department: Production

****** $1,000 SIGN ON BONUS ELIGIBLE*******

Job Purpose

The Batch Mixer / Processing Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of blending, processing, and packaging equipment in a dry powder food manufacturing environment. This role ensures all products are produced in accordance with Woodland Gourmet’s quality, food safety, and production standards. The position requires accurate weighing and mixing of ingredients, operation of industrial equipment, strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and completion of all production and quality documentation.

Essential duties and responsibilities

Production and Equipment Operation

• Set up, operate, and monitor industrial-scale blenders, grinders and packaging equipment for dry food powders, ensuring all products meet strict quality specifications.
• Load raw ingredients and follow detailed batch records or formulas accurately.
• Perform machine changeovers, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maintain optimal production efficiency.
• Adhere to the daily production schedule and communicate inefficiencies or production concerns to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure work areas and production lines start on time and operate efficiently.
• Mix batches according to established mixing instructions and production procedures as needed.

Quality & Compliance

• Strictly adhere to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP rules, including proper hygiene, gowning procedures, and sanitary work practices, to prevent cross‑contamination.
• Conduct in‑process quality checks (e.g., weight, seal integrity, code dates) and document all production and quality data precisely.
• Identify and report any equipment malfunctions, quality issues, work or food safety concerns to a supervisor immediately.

Sanitation & Maintenance

• Execute thorough cleaning and sanitation of blenders, packaging lines, and work areas according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and food safety requirements.
• Assist the maintenance team with preventative maintenance and minor repairs as needed.

General Duties

• Operate forklifts or other material handling equipment safely to move raw materials and finished goods (certification may be required).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and supervisors to achieve daily production targets.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of hands‑on experience operating blending and packaging equipment within a manufacturing environment, preferably with dry powder food products.
• Demonstrated knowledge of GMP and food safety practices; HACCP knowledge preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for machine operation and troubleshooting.
• Excellent numerical skills for measuring, weighing, and batch calculations.
• High attention to detail and commitment to product quality and accuracy.
• Must have a working knowledge of general warehouse operations, food industry experience a plus.
• Must be flexible with hours, possibility for OT.
• Ability to lift 50lbs.
• Must follow all WG GMPs and work consistently with all food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.

Skills/Abilities

• Must have basic computer skills.
• Ability to read and write English.
• Must be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedural documents.
• Understand the basics of scale operations, weights, and measurements.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Flexibility to adapt to different production lines.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to assist with minor equipment adjustments and collaborate with maintenance teams.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are those an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions.Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and frequently bend and move about the facility. Must be able to climb ladders and maneuver in small spaces. Able to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive physical tasks. Ability to lift, push, or pull materials up to 50 pounds.
Able to work in a typical manufacturing environment, which may include exposure to noise and non‑toxic dust.

Personal Protective Equipment

The performance of this position requires exposure to manufacturing and warehouse areas, which, under certain conditions, may require the use of personal protective equipment.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here represent those encountered by an employee while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions. This position does not allow for remote work.

• Works in a manufacturing environment
• Exposure to dust, odors, and noise

This document does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
Woodland Gourmet hires exceptional people to perform a wide variety of important functions that contribute to the success of our organization. We offer a competitive compensation package with benefits. The hourly rate for this role will be $ 20.00 to $ 28.00. This position is eligible for an annual bonus (based on the incentive program terms and conditions). Based on your qualifications, previous experience, and transferable skills, the company will determine, at its discretion, the hourly rate offered and will reflect the market conditions and cost of living for your geographic location.

Benefits

• medical
• prescription drug plans
• dental
• life insurance
• short-term and long-term disability
• vision insurance
• flexible spending account
• health savings account
• tuition reimbursement
• employee assistance program
• voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identify theft)
• 401k with company match
• paid family leave
• paid holidays and paid time off

Woodland Gourmet is a participant in the federal E-Verify program. As part of the hiring process, we will verify the information provided on your Form I-9 to confirm your eligibility to work in the United States.
E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from your Form I-9 to government records to confirm employment eligibility. For more information on E-Verify and your rights, please visit the E-Verify website.