Meat Processing Operator 1st shift

NaturPak; Janesville (WI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

NaturPak in Janesville, WI is seeking a Meat Processing Operator for 1st shift to support hands-on processing, handling, and packaging of meat-based pet food products at our Innovation Facility.

You will follow SOPs, document batch data, monitor CCPs, and maintain GMP compliance with a strong emphasis on food safety and quality, including reliable attendance and teamwork.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in food manufacturing, meat processing, or a USDA/FDA-regulated facility.
• Demonstrated knowledge of GMP and food safety practices.
• Ability to read and follow written SOPs, batch records, and work instructions.
• Reliable attendance; ability to work assigned shifts including evenings, weekends, and overtime as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety and quality.

Responsibilities

• Operate meat processing equipment including grinders, slicers, blenders, and portioning machinery per established SOPs.
• Receive, inspect, and document incoming raw meat materials - verify weight, temperature, and condition against spec.
• Prepare and stage meat ingredients for production runs per batch records and formulation requirements.
• Monitor and record CCPs and processing parameters throughout the shift.
• Perform end-of-run cleanouts, CIP/COP procedures, and equipment sanitization per food safety protocols.
• Identify, segregate, and properly hold non-conforming product; notify QA/QC immediately.
• Complete all required production records, batch logs, and traceability documentation in real time.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the shift in compliance with GMP and food safety standards.
• Properly manage meat waste, trimmings, and byproducts per USDA and facility disposal procedures.
• Report equipment issues, safety hazards, or quality concerns to the Line Lead or Supervisor immediately.
• Follow all safety, food safety, GMP, HACCP, and OSHA requirements at all times.

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Meat Processing Operator 1st shift

Prod Labor Full Time Janesville, WI, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1364

The Meat Processing Operator is responsible for the hands-on processing, handling, and packaging of meat-based products at NaturPak's Innovation Facility in Janesville, WI. This role is critical to the production of premium pet nutrition products - ensuring that all meat ingredients are processed safely, accurately, and in full compliance with food safety and quality standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate meat processing equipment including grinders, slicers, blenders, and portioning machinery per established SOPs.
• Receive, inspect, and document incoming raw meat materials - verify weight, temperature, and condition against spec.
• Prepare and stage meat ingredients for production runs per batch records and formulation requirements.
• Monitor and record Critical Control Points (CCPs) and processing parameters throughout the shift.
• Perform end-of-run cleanouts, CIP/COP procedures, and equipment sanitization per food safety protocols.
• Identify, segregate, and properly hold non-conforming product; notify QA/QC immediately.
• Complete all required production records, batch logs, and traceability documentation in real time.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the shift in compliance with GMP and food safety standards.
• Properly manage meat waste, trimmings, and byproducts per USDA and facility disposal procedures.
• Report equipment issues, safety hazards, or quality concerns to the Line Lead or Supervisor immediately.
• Follow all safety, food safety, GMP, HACCP, and OSHA requirements at all times.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in food manufacturing, meat processing, or a USDA/FDA-regulated facility.
• Demonstrated knowledge of GMP and food safety practices.
• Ability to read and follow written SOPs, batch records, and work instructions.
• Reliable attendance; ability to work assigned shifts including evenings, weekends, and overtime as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety and quality.

Preferred

• Prior experience in pet food manufacturing or USDA-inspected processing environments.
• Familiarity with HACCP principles and Critical Control Points.
• Experience operating industrial grinders, slicers, or portioning equipment.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods on a production floor.
• Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling of up to 50 lbs; occasional lifts up to 60 lbs with assistance.
• Ability to work in cold environments (34-40°F) and warm processing zones.
• Must be able to bend, reach, and perform repetitive hand/wrist motions.
• Must be able to wear required PPE: hair/beard net, safety shoes, cut-resistant gloves, apron, and hearing protection.

Work is performed at NaturPak's Innovation Facility at Janesville, WI. This is a USDA-inspected, high-volume pet food manufacturing environment. Operators work in temperature-controlled meat handling and processing areas. The environment includes exposure to cold temperatures (34-40°F), wet surfaces, industrial equipment noise, and steam. Strict adherence to GMP, food safety, HACCP, OSHA, and all NaturPak workplace safety requirements is always mandatory.