Machine Operator

CTI Foods; Saginaw (TX); On-site; USD 22,041 - 33,062; Full time

Job summary

CTI Foods is seeking a Machine Operator to run Cryovac, Kettles, or Slurry lines and to maintain production flow in a fast-paced facility in Texas. You will be responsible for equipment setup, weight control, and quality checks while following GMP and safety guidelines.

This role requires ability to read instructions, perform basic math, and work across 1st or 2nd shifts. The position emphasizes teamwork, attention to detail, and adherence to food safety practices to ensure product integrity.

Qualifications

• Ability to follow written, oral, or diagram instructions.
• Basic mathematical calculations required for weighing and portioning.
• May require HACCP, Lockout/Tagout, forklift/pallet jack certification, chemical and allergen handling.

Responsibilities

• Operate dispensing machine, grinder, and controls.
• Operate Cryovac, Kettles, and Slurry as needed.
• Set up and tear down of dispensing equipment.
• Maintain proper weight and placement of filling through adjustments.
• Monitor equipment for proper function and record results.
• Prepare and maintain required production records.

Skills

Follow instructions

Basic math

Safety awareness

Teamwork

English literacy

Education

HACCP training

Lockout/Tagout certification

Forklift certification

Tools

Vertical form-fill-seal machines

Code daters

Metal detectors

Pumps

Electric motors

Scales

Job description

We are a customer focused custom manufacturer of quality food products to exacting standards that delight our customer and their consumers.

The people of CTI Foods are our #1 ingredient that drive us to be the best custom food and culinary solutions team that has seven state-of-the-art food processing facilities and over 1,800 employees from Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, and Texas.

We are a company that “Thinks Big and Acts Small.” Employees are treated like family. In order to succeed, it takes every person working together, being nimble, and executing at the highest levels. It is our responsibility to provide you every opportunity and resource to achieve that success.

Make an impact from day ONE at CTI Foods!

Job Overview

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating one of the following machines; Cryovac, Kettles, or Slurry as needed and to keep up with the flow of production.

Responsibilities

• Operate the dispensing machine, grinder, and other controls.
• Operate Cryovac, Kettles, and , Slurry as needed.
• Responsible for set/tear down of dispensing equipment
• Operate equipment adjusting as needed to maintain proper weight and placement of filling.
• Monitor equipment for proper function.
• Assist in preparing/maintaining required records and documents.
• Communicate with management and fellow operators regarding any problems or information that could affect quality or downstream production.
• Calibrate scales and metal detectors; verify functions throughout the production shift.
• Perform magnet inspections throughout the shift. Increase frequency based on risk of product.
• Adjust Cryovac packaging machine using the HMI to ensure pouch seal, integrity vis seal checks and strength test.
• Perform scale verification.
• Control and document pouch weights, magnet inspections, metal detector verification, film usage etc.
• Provide direction to fill room employees how to flatten pouches before they enter the spiral freezer.
• Communicate with Kitchen cooks and pack-off lead to determine staffing needs to ensure product flow and maintain the quality and safety of the product.
• Clean and inspect equipment in between product changeovers.
• Keep work area clean and free of clutter and debris.
• Follow all food safety (GMP) and general safety guidelines.
• Complete all other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ability to apply understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or diagram form.
• Perform basic mathematical calculations
• Maybe required to have additional training in HACCP, lock out Tag Out, Forklift/Pallet Jack Certification, chemical and Allergen usage.
• Working knowledge of vertical form fill / seal machines, code daters, metal detectors, pumps and electric motors.
• Ability to work 1st shift OR 2nd shift

Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is standing for 8-10 hour shift
• Be able to stand, stoop bend and climb steps for extended periods of time
• Be able to lift film rolls (50lbs.) to place on machine.
• Be able to lift pipes overhead to assemble / disassemble equipment
• Basic literacy (English) and math skills

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; toxic or caustic chemicals; extreme cold; extreme heat and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud and requires that hearing protection be worn in production areas at all times.