Batch Operator Assistant

DeKalb Health; Los Banos (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Kagome is seeking a Batch Assistant who supports batch operators in sauce production. You will blend materials, monitor process computer systems, and ensure accurate documentation of lot numbers. The role requires adherence to GMPs, 5S/food safety standards, and collaboration with the MES program for continuous improvement.

Preferred candidates have food processing experience and a high school diploma, with readiness to learn MSPs, CCPs, and advanced sanitation practices in a fast-paced facility.

Qualifications

• Food processing experience in a technically advanced facility preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Willingness to continue education through approved courses.

Responsibilities

• Follow GMPs and SOPs during blending of ingredients.
• Document ingredient lot numbers using scanners or computer input.
• Operate batching and CIP/COP equipment.
• Make batch adjustments for salt, pH, and TA.
• Maintain sanitation and complete related paperwork.

Skills

GMP compliance

MES experience

Safety rules adherence

Batching & formulation

Documentation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Central process computer

RFID scanners

Blending tanks

Heat exchangers

Job description

• Base Pay $20.41 - $27.56 / Hour
• Job Category Production
• Employee Type Non-Exempt

Description

Employee will follow approved training matrix and direction of Batch Operator I and II to become knowledgeable in the batch assistant position. Employee will assist the batcher in the formulation of sauces. Employee will be required to assist and/or formulate products according to established MSP's. Employee will be required to process raw materials into sauces by manually weighing out and dumping dry ingredients into blend tanks and operate blend equipment by a central process computer system. Employee will be required to fill in for Batch Operator and Bin dump operators when needed. Help with implementation and support of MES program. Help with implementation and support of 5S program.

Support and ensure compliance with all programs, policies, and procedures outlined in the Food Safety and Quality Management System. Fulfill assigned food safety and regulatory responsibilities in accordance with the SQF Food Safety Code, including promptly reporting any concerns to initiate corrective action. Actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S and EOS.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• 1.Follows approved safety rules, GMP's and standard operating procedures while blending raw materials into sauces (using blending tanks, transfer pumps and heat exchangers) through a central process computer system.
• 2.Consistently and with accuracy keeps track of and documents ingredient lot numbers with the use of scanners and/or computer keyboard.
• 3.Shall be able to run batching and sanitation (CIP/COP) equipment.
• 4.Shall know how to make batches and batching adjustments.
• 5.Shall be capable of using batch adjustment sheets to adjust batches for salt, pH and TA.
• 6.Shall understand the differences in heating sources and how they work.
• 7.Shall be able to set up the lines for both production process and CIP process.
• 8.Follows approved sanitation standard operating procedures (SSOP's) in completing CIP and COP of the process equipment and room. Also, completes correctly and accurately CIP/COP paperwork.
• 9.Knows how to read, understand, and follow the Manufacturing Standard Procedures (MSP's). Also, be capable of identifying CCP's and understand variance procedures.
• 10.Understands and follows recycling program.
• 11.Fills out work orders when repairs are needed on equipment and/or processing rooms.
• 12.Assist Batch operator in equipment start-up, shut down and CIP as required.
• 13.Perform all filter and magnet checks necessary throughout the shift.
• 14.Follow all GMP's, ensure that proper safety equipment is being worn: gloves, safety glasses, face shield, earplugs and wash down rain suit during CIP.
• 15.Ensure that all equipment to be used is safe and in good working condition.
• 16.Maintain good communication and reports all discrepancies to the Batcher and/or Shift Supervisor/Line Lead such as maintenance problems, operations problems, and product specification discrepancies, etc.
• 17.Understand daily safety, quality and production goals.
• 18.Verify that all paper work is correct and corresponds with the product being produced.
• 19.Ensure all paperwork is complete and legible.
• 20.Will participate in safety tailgates and complete assigned trainings in provided time frame
• 21.Maintains a clean working environment at all times.
• 22.Thorough shift pass-down with oncoming operator.
• 23.Performs other duties as needed or assigned by Supervisor or Line Lead.

POSITION DIMENSIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Internal Contacts:

Operations Manager, Operations Supervisors, Line Lead, Pouch Filler Operator, Dump Room Operator, Quality Personnel, Maintenance, Purchasing Coordinator.

External Contacts:

Customers, CI&I, auditors, ingredient and chemical suppliers.

Education Level and Focus:

High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Willingness to continue education through approved courses or classes that will enhance personal and professional growth.

Years and Type of Related Experience Required:

Food processing experience in a technically advanced facility preferred and at least one year as a Batch Operator III.

Positions Supervised:

None

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Uphold Kagome's Values:

Employee works well with others as a team and treats others with respect. Conducts self in a professional manner and exhibits the highest level of integrity. Maintains a positive attitude through good working relationships with our customers, visitors, and co-workers that emphasizes our commitment to good customer service.

Reliability and acceptable attendance are required. It is critical to be punctual and arrive on time for work and for meetings (if applicable).

Productivity:

Must consistently fulfill job responsibilities, knowing how to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.

Employee Retention:

Build a culture employees and/or co-workers want to be a part of. Be helpful to others and work as a team toward company goals. Participate in an exceptional onboarding experience for new hires and ensure they have the necessary tools to succeed in their roles by welcoming and assisting them.

Interpersonal and Communication:

Ability to function with minimal supervision, including the capacity to learn, and follow processing-CIP and sanitation procedures, safety rules and other directives. Ability to speak and write English. Must be able to communicate effectively with co-workers and management team.

Technical and Analytical:

Basic math skills, process equipment problem solving aptitude, formulation problem solving aptitude, MES training and execution program.

Administration and Operations:

Aptitude for detailed documentation of the batching, CIP/COP/GMP and room sanitation processes and procedures. Able to implement and apply time management skills and procedures to define the batching process to be efficient and cost effective.

Physical Demands:

Standing for long periods of time, reaching, bending, lift 50+ lbs., climbing stairs, pushing, pulling.

Food plant, cold, hot and humid conditions, wet floors, high noise levels, forklift and pedestrian traffic. This is a Safety Sensitive position

Special Equipment Used:

Blending tanks, transfer pumps, heat exchangers, central computer, tote elevator, forklift, scales, COP/CIP equipment, required hand tools and RFID Scanners.