Blending Operator II

Microbial Discovery Group; Oak Creek (WI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Microbial Discovery Group in Oak Creek, Wisconsin seeks a Blending Operator II to support production processes. The role demands expertise in operating blending equipment, quality control, and process improvement, along with the ability to mentor junior team members.

Candidates should possess knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and have experience in production settings. This position involves hands-on responsibilities including equipment operation, collaboration with quality control, and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• Experience operating blending, sampling, and packaging equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for resolving equipment malfunctions.
• Experience in training junior operators and demonstrating leadership.

Responsibilities

• Operate blending and packaging equipment with high proficiency.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions with maintenance personnel.
• Mentor and train Blending Operator I team members.

Skills

Operating and troubleshooting blending equipment

Mechanical aptitude

Training and mentoring

Batch production processes execution

Material handling and packaging logistics

Computerized control systems

GMP and HACCP compliance

Organization and multitasking

Mathematical skills for precise measuring

Forklift operation

Education

High school diploma

Technical certifications or training

Job description

About Us: Microbial Discovery Group (MDG) is an R&D-driven product development and Bacillus fermentation company. We apply Real Science to a Trusted Process, yielding Proven Success for our partners. At MDG, we recognize the need for sustainable solutions to the world’s largest problems, and we work to solve them as part of our mission to Feed, Clean, Save the World. As a member of our team, your ideas and innovations are integral to who we are. Come grow with us!

Position Summary

The Blending Operator II (BO2) is a key role in the production process, providing advanced support in the daily operation of blending equipment, material handling, quality control, and process improvement. BO2s possess a higher level of expertise in machine operation, troubleshooting, and training junior operators. They demonstrate leadership capabilities by assisting in process optimization and ensuring compliance with production metrics. This role requires a deep understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), equipment calibration, and workflow coordination to optimize efficiency and maintain high-quality standards. Additionally, BO2s serve as a communication bridge between production leadership, leads, and management, ensuring clear and accurate information flow regarding production schedules, equipment status, and operational challenges.

Responsibilities

• Operate all blending and packaging equipment at an advanced proficiency level, ensuring efficiency and adherence to safety protocols.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and work closely with maintenance personnel to minimize downtime.
• Provide mentorship and training to Blending Operator I (BO1) team members, sharing best practices and reinforcing operational standards.
• Lead by example in adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Gather, weigh, and verify ingredients for blend processing, ensuring batch consistency and compliance with production specifications.
• Select and configure the appropriate blender based on order size, ingredient characteristics, and machine capacity.
• Operate precision measuring instruments and automated blending systems to achieve optimal product quality.
• Conduct in-process inspections and submit samples of blends to Quality Control and third-party testing.
• Package, label, and prepare finished products for shipment per production orders, ensuring proper documentation and traceability.
• Maintain detailed production logs, ensuring accuracy in inventory tracking, material usage, and lot traceability.
• Oversee facility cleanliness, post-maintenance sanitation, and preventative maintenance tasks to ensure equipment longevity.
• Coordinate with the Quality Control (QC) department to ensure strict compliance with GMP and HACCP standards.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives, identifying areas for increased efficiency, cost savings, and waste reduction.
• Lead safety initiatives, ensuring proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and adherence to all workplace safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating and troubleshooting blending, sampling, and packaging equipment in a production setting.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to identify and resolve equipment malfunctions quickly.
• Experience training and mentoring junior operators, demonstrating leadership skills within the production team.
• Ability to execute batch production processes with precision, ensuring compliance with established formulas and quality standards.
• Demonstrates advanced proficiency in material handling, measuring, sampling, packaging, and shipping logistics.
• Proficiency in using computerized control systems for equipment operation and process monitoring.
• Experience in GMP and HACCP compliance; previous audit or quality assurance exposure is a plus.
• High level of independence and initiative is required, with the ability to make informed decisions to optimize production workflow.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills to manage multiple production orders efficiently.
• Strong mathematical skills for precise measuring, scaling, and batch adjustments.
• Forklift certification preferred or ability to obtain certification within 30 days of hire.
• High school diploma required; relevant technical certifications or training programs are a plus.
• Minimum of two to three years of experience in a blending, fermentation, or production environment, with a strong understanding of industrial mixing processes.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Majority of work is conducted in a fermentation production facility and includes frequent exposure to wet, humid, dusty, and noisy conditions.
• Work includes lifting (up to 50 lbs.), standing, walking, as well as occasional scooping, kneeling, or crouching.
• May be exposed to airborne particles and chemicals used in fermentation production facilities.

Safety Requirements

• Mandated use of company-issued uniform and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Adherence to all company safety procedures and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.