Cooker Operator

Darling Ingredients Inc.; Coldwater (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Darling Ingredients Inc. in Michigan is seeking a Cooker Operator to run PLC-controlled equipment, monitor pumps and grinders, and ensure product quality within GMP-driven processes.

You will document operations, assist with safety meetings, and be prepared for night and weekend shifts as needed; prior manufacturing or rendering facility experience is a plus. This role requires safety focus and teamwork.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Manufacturing, industrial, or agricultural experience preferred.
• Experience in rendering facilities or production environments preferred.
• Team-oriented; dependable; able to work nights/weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate the PLC-controlled machinery within set parameters.
• Monitor pumps and grinders to maintain quality and safety.
• Document plant operations per GMP program.
• Notify shift manager of issues or maintenance needs.
• Attend all safety meetings and follow safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Teamwork

Reliability

Night/Weekend availability

Quality focus

Safety minded

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The Cooker Operator is responsible for the operation of PLC to control the machinery. They must monitor pumps and grinders to ensure quality assurance.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
• Always conduct yourself in a safe and controlled manner
• Blow grease lines as required
• Clean up to include but not limited to shoveling the floor, hosing floors and machinery down, using wheelbarrows and PIT's.
• Operate the cooking process within selected parameters
• Document plant operations per our GMP program
• Notify shift manager of any issues or maintenance problems
• Attendance at all safety meetings required
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED

Preferred Qualifications

• Manufacturing, industrial, or agricultural experience preferred.
• Prior experience in a rendering facility or production environment preferred.
• Works well with others in a team environment.
• Dependable; reliable; ability to work nights and/or weekends as needed.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Frequently exposed to high noise levels, strong odors, varying temperatures, and biohazardous conditions.
• Requires prolonged sitting and movement throughout office/work locations, as well as occasional use of computers and office equipment.
• Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and climb or balance.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and identify potential workplace hazards.
• Requires the ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster of this job.