Lead Extrusion Operator, 2nd Shift (D1135)

Wellness Pet Company; Decatur (AR); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pet food company based in Decatur, AR, is seeking a Lead Extrusion Operator for the 2nd shift position. The role involves overseeing the production flow, troubleshooting equipment issues, and training operators. Ideal candidates should have at least 3 years of extrusion operation experience and 1 year in a supervisory role. This full-time position demands attention to detail and strong communication skills. Competitive salary and benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience in extruder operation.
• Minimum 1 year in a supervisor/lead role.
• Knowledge of Safety, HACCP, GMPs, and OSHA standards.

Responsibilities

• Maintain production flow and equipment troubleshooting.
• Train extruder operators and maximize efficiency.
• Monitor equipment, perform maintenance and repairs.

Skills

Extruder operation experience

Supervisory experience

Attention to detail

Communication skills in English

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Lead Extrusion Operator, 2nd Shift (D1135)

Join Wellness Pet Company as a Lead Extrusion Operator for the 2nd Shift (2:00 PM – 10:30 PM). The role focuses on maintaining production flow for extrusion lines, quality oversight, and operator supervision.

Shift and Location

2nd Shift: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Decatur, AR – Manufacturing Plant

About Wellness Pet Company

Wellness Pet Company is on a mission to help the next generation of pet parents fulfill a shared life of wellbeing with their pets. We craft high‑quality pet food, dental chews, treats, and toppers using proven nutrition and cutting‑edge technology. We foster a culture of collaboration, hard work, and ownership of outcomes.

Role Overview

The Extrusion Lead maintains production flow, performs equipment troubleshooting, and leads team training. The position requires 40 hours per week with overtime as needed.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Setup, startup, and operation of extruder equipment per production schedule.
• Monitor equipment, make adjustments, perform basic maintenance and small repairs.
• Train extruder operators.
• Maximize extruder efficiency and throughput while ensuring product quality.
• Maintain production records and assure accurate data capture.
• Recommend process improvements and equipment performance enhancements.
• Perform sanitation tasks to meet quality standards.
• Coordinate with shift supervisors to ensure packaging lines are supplied appropriately.
• Maintain housekeeping at high level in extrusion area.
• Investigate non‑conformities and develop preventive actions.
• Adjust work procedures to meet production requirements.
• Collaborate with maintenance to develop operator PMs for equipment.
• Monitor die plate condition and interface with engineering for new concepts.
• Develop extrusion standards and routines.
• Create recipes with the Controls Engineer to establish standard run starts.
• Establish extrusion density conversions for operators.
• Work with product development on trials and commissioning runs.
• Document in‑process quality checks and ensure product meets standards.
• Clean, disassemble, and reassemble line equipment for inspection or deep cleaning.
• Follow safety procedures and company GMPs.
• All other duties as assigned.

Workplace Safety

• Complete safety documentation and verify compliance.
• Participate in mandatory safety trainings.
• Report all safety issues, near misses, and injuries.

Quality & Food Safety

• Complete quality & food safety documentation and verify compliance.
• Participate in mandatory food safety and quality training.
• Preserve BRC system integrity; report failures and take corrective actions.

Position Requirements

• Minimum 3 years experience in extruder operation.
• Minimum 1 year in a supervisor/lead role.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Knowledge of Safety, HACCP, GMPs, and OSHA standards.
• Strong extrusion process and equipment knowledge.
• Ability to train new operators.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Attention to detail and adherence to instructions.
• Knowledge of 5S (plus).
• Experience with computerized equipment (scales, controllers, etc.).
• Strong reading, writing, and communication skills in English.
• Ability to work in environments with odor, noise, heat, cold, dust and chemicals.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift 35‑50 lb and push/pull up to 50 lb.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
• Familiar with hand tools.
• Strong verbal and mathematical capability.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in pet food manufacturing.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Food and Beverage Manufacturing

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wellness Pet Company is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or Veteran status.