MACHINE OPERATOR

Kent Nutrition Group; Waterloo (IA); On-site; USD 31,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Kent Nutrition Group in Waterloo, IA, is seeking a Machine Operator to join our feed production team. The role covers daily operation of equipment, quality control, ingredient handling, and load-out, following SOPs and safety standards.

Ideal candidates have at least 1+ year of manufacturing experience, basic math and communication skills, and a willingness to work on 2nd or 3rd shift. The position emphasizes teamwork, GMP/HACCP compliance, and safety-focused operations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED.
• 1+ years of manufacturing experience.
• Farming background a plus.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety requirements.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Good communication, verbal, written and math skills.
• Ability to work as a team member.
• Thorough understanding of cGMP's.
• Knowledge of HACCP Feed & Safety Plan.
• Knowledge of FSMA.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 55 lbs.
• Ability to operate a forklift.
• Ability to work in dust and adverse weather conditions and temperatures.
• Must pass pre-employment drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Operate daily equipment to process and manufacture feed products per SOPs.
• Operate bagger, sewing machine, and forklift safely for optimum production.
• Follow warehouse and loading protocols.
• Ensure quality assurance for ingredient receiving, load-out, and bagging.
• Record and document all feed manufactured during shift.
• Assist with production scheduling, inventory planning, and control.
• Assist with equipment maintenance and repair as needed.
• Load and unload trucks safely.
• Provide excellent customer service and assist customers when needed.
• Communicate with managers, co-workers, and customers.
• Identify workplace hazards and follow safety policies.

Skills

Manufacturing

Teamwork

Quality control

Safety awareness

Basic math

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift operation

OSHA knowledge

Job description

Looking to join a seven-time US Best Managed Company award winner? KENT Nutrition, a member of the KENT WORLDWIDE family of companies has an opening for an Machine Operator at their Waterloo, IA plant! The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing routine tasks related to the feed production including quality control, ingredient and feed processing, manufacturing and load out, ingredient receiving and storage, equipment maintenance and housekeeping. The Machine Operator must possess a strong work ethic, customer focused, hardworking and desire to work as a team member. Two opportunities available, 2nd or 3rd shift.

• This position is designed and intended to be performed in Waterloo, IA.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Daily operation of equipment to process and manufacture feed products according to KNG's Standard Operating Procedures
• Operate the bagger, sewing machine, and fork truck in a proficient and safe manner for optimum production
• Follow warehouse and loading protocols
• Operate the all feed manufacturing equipment safely and efficiently
• Ensure KNG's quality assurance protocol is met regarding ingredient receiving, load-out, and bagging
• Perform necessary recording and documentation of all feed manufactured during shift
• Mix and prepare livestock feeds efficiently and in a manner that assures accuracy and high quality
• Assist management with production scheduling, inventory planning, & control for both ingredients and finished products
• Assist with equipment maintenance and repair as needed
• Load and unload trucks in a safe and efficient manner
• Provide excellent customer service and assist customers when needed
• Observe and enforce all company policies & procedures
• Effectively communicate with managers, co-workers, and customers
• Perform general work around the facility and other duties as assigned
• Maintain and promote a strong safety culture and follow all safety policies, procedures and regulations Identify and communicate workplace hazards and correct or seek assistance in correcting unsafe actions or conditions
• Other duties as assigned by Plant Management

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or GED
• 1 plus years of manufacturing experience
• Farming background a plus
• Knowledge of OSHA safety requirements
• Basic computer knowledge
• Good communication, verbal, written and math skills
• Ability to work as a team member
• Thorough understanding of cGMP's
• Knowledge of HACCP Feed & Safety Plan
• Knowledge of FSMA
• Ability to lift a minimum of 55 lbs. from floor to working height as job requires
• Ability to operate a forklift
• Ability to work in dust and adverse weather conditions and temperatures
• Must pass pre-employment drug screen