Day Shift Crush Operator

American Natural; Cherokee (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

American Natural is seeking Production Operators to safely and efficiently run Crush processing equipment, ensuring products meet quality and food safety requirements. You will monitor parameters, perform checks, and document results to uphold GMP standards.

The role supports various shifts and may involve weekend work, with a $5/hour differential for late-weekend hours. The position offers growth from Operator I to II with emphasis on safety, reliability, and collaboration within a regulated

Qualifications

• Follow GMPs, SOPs and food safety requirements.
• Maintain accurate documentation and recordkeeping.
• Demonstrate reliability and commitment to safety and quality.

Responsibilities

• Operate Crush processing equipment per SOPs, GMPs and safety requirements.
• Monitor process conditions, equipment performance, and product quality.
• Perform routine in-process checks and documentation accurately and timely.
• Identify and respond to deviations, equipment issues, or safety concerns.
• Perform routine sanitation, housekeeping, and basic maintenance tasks.
• Support receiving and load-out activities as required.
• Follow all safety policies including lockout/tagout and PPE.

Skills

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Documentation

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Summary

Production Operators are responsible for safely and efficiently operating plant equipment and processes to produce products that meet quality, food safety, and regulatory requirements at American Natural Processors (ANP). This role primarily supports Crush operations.

This shift is Monday - Friday, 6am to 2:30pm with occasional opportunities for weekend shifts. We pay a $5 an hour differential for all hours worked between Midnight on Fridays and Midnight on Sundays.

Food Safety, GMP & Compliance Responsibilities

• Follow all GMPs, SOPs, and food safety requirements applicable to production activities.
• Identify and report food safety or quality risks immediately.
• Ensure work practices protect product integrity and consumer safety.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate Crush processing equipment in accordance with SOPs, GMPs, and safety requirements.
• Monitor process conditions, equipment performance, and product quality parameters.
• Perform routine in-process checks, documentation, and recordkeeping accurately and timely.
• Identify, respond to, and escalation process deviations, equipment issues, or food safety concerns.
• Perform routine sanitation, housekeeping, and basic maintenance tasks as assigned.
• Support receiving and load-out activities related to production operations as required.
• Follow all safety policies, including lockout/tagout, confined space, PPE, and food safety requirements.

Operator Level Differentiation

Production Operator I

Experience / Qualification Level:

• Entry-level operator or developing production employee.
• Typically 0–2 years of experience in manufacturing, agriculture, or processing environments.

Role Expectations:

• Learn and perform core Crush operations under supervision.
• Follow procedures accurately and ask questions when clarification is needed.
• Demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and quality.

Production Operator II

Experience / Qualification Level:

• Intermediate-level operator.
• Typically 2–5 years of experience or demonstrated competency through performance.

Role Expectations:

• Independently operate Crush processes with minimal supervision.
• Recognize and respond appropriately to routine process variability.
• Support training and onboarding of new or less-experienced operators.
• Demonstrate sound judgment and consistent adherence to food safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic math, documentation, and communication skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.

Preferred

• Prior experience in food manufacturing, agriculture, or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude or process awareness.

Physical & Work Environment

• Manufacturing and plant environment with exposure to noise, temperature variation, moving equipment, dust, and odors.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, climb stairs and ladders, and lift up to 100 lbs.
• Could require shift work, overtime, and off-shift coverage based on operational needs.

Reporting Relationship

• Reports to: Shift Lead, Production Supervisor, or Site Leadership, as designated

Position Type

• Full-Time | Hourly (Level-based)

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Responsibilities may change as business needs evolve. Production Operators are expected to comply with all company policies, safety requirements, and regulatory obligations.