Prep Operator

Baumer Foods, Inc.; Reserve (LA); On-site; USD 17,908 - 24,108; Full time

Job summary

A food production company based in Reserve, LA is seeking a Prep Operator to ensure the safe and efficient operation of preparation equipment. This role is critical in maintaining food safety and product quality while working within a team environment. Responsibilities include monitoring production processes, operating equipment, and maintaining cleanliness according to GMP standards. Candidates should have basic math skills, attention to detail, and be able to safely operate forklifts. Previous food manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• Ability to safely operate equipment and vehicles like forklifts.
• Demonstrated reliability and accountability.
• Ability to maintain focus during the shift.

Responsibilities

• Operate preparation equipment safely and efficiently.
• Monitor production processes for quality and safety.
• Maintain cleanliness of work areas per GMP standards.

Skills

Basic math skills

Attention to detail

Ability to follow instructions

Teamwork

Education

Forklift training completion

Previous food manufacturing experience

Tools

Forklift operation

Job description

Prep Operator

Department: Preparation

Shift: Day

Morning Schedule: Monday – Thursday | 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Afternoon Schedule: Monday – Thursday | 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Location: Reserve Plant

Reports To: Prep Supervisor / Shift Supervisor

Pay Range: $13.00 – $17.50 per hour

Position Summary

The Prep Operator is responsible for the safe, accurate, and efficient operation of preparation department equipment to produce high‑quality food products. This role plays a critical part in maintaining food safety, product quality, and production efficiency. Prep Operators are expected to take ownership of their work area, follow established procedures, and actively contribute to a safe and productive team environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor manual and powered preparation equipment according to established procedures.
• Perform basic equipment adjustments or repairs as needed and report mechanical issues promptly.
• Accurately follow batch formulas, including proper scaling, weighing, and mixing of ingredients.
• Identify and remove out‑of‑code, expired, or nonconforming perishable ingredients.
• Read, understand, and complete production documents, including batch formulas and production sheets.
• Load and feed ingredients and supplies into machines safely and efficiently.
• Monitor production processes and respond appropriately to deviations, alarms, or quality concerns.
• Ensure all products meet established quality and food safety standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of assigned work areas, equipment, and tools in accordance with GMP and food safety requirements.
• Actively follow and support all safety procedures, including proper use of PPE and situational awareness around machinery, steam, water, forklifts, and moving parts.
• Wear required hearing protection at all times while in production areas (ear plugs provided by the company).
• Maintain awareness of surroundings and work conditions to prevent accidents or injuries.
• Perform other duties as assigned that are consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Basic math, reading, and language skills.
• Ability to accurately follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to maintain focus, situational awareness, and task accuracy throughout the shift.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly with supervisors and coworkers.
• Demonstrated reliability, dependability, and accountability.
• Ability to safely operate equipment and vehicles, including forklifts, in accordance with company training and policies.

Education and Experience

• Must successfully complete forklift training or demonstrate safe forklift operation during an on‑site evaluation.
• Previous food manufacturing or production experience preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry up to 55 pounds.
• Ability to move and lift up to a 50‑pound wooden skid or pallet.
• Work environment may include exposure to steam, water, moving machinery, mechanical parts, and forklifts.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice, consistent with business needs.