Processing Operator

Alphia; Pawnee City (NE); On-site; USD 36,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Alphia seeks an extrusion operator to ensure quality products through proper operation of extrusion equipment in Pawnee City, Nebraska. You will set up equipment, run sheets, and follow written formulas to produce consistent product quality.

Responsibilities include operating extrusion systems, monitoring performance, handling ingredients, maintaining safety and GMP/SOP compliance, and accurate reporting. This is an entry level role focused on teamwork and reliability.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Entry level position.
• Team oriented and collaborative.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task and follow instructions.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, calibrate, operate and monitor extrusion system and auxiliary equipment.
• Inspect equipment hourly and adjust variables to meet specs.
• Handle and move up to 50-pound bags of ingredients; operate forklift as needed.
• Ensure paperwork is complete; maintain accurate processing condition reports.
• Calculate production run rates and monitor product quality attributes.

Skills

Team player

Communicate effectively

Attention to safety

Basic math

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Forklift operation

Job description

Job Description:

JOB PURPOSE:

Ensure quality products are produced through the proper operation of extrusion (and related) equipment. Set-up equipment and produce products using run sheets and written formulas.

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Helps assemble, calibrate, operate, and monitor extruder and all auxiliary equipment (pumps, micro-motions, dry coating applicator, tanks, agitators, etc.) of one extrusion system.


• Inspects and evaluates equipment hourly; adjusts equipment variables to meet equipment and product requirements.


• Frequently dumps/weighs, carries, and stacks up to 50-pound bags of ingredients and/or product.


• Operates forklift and hand-held scanners to remove ingredients from inventory for use in production.


• Assists in evaluating orders; ensures paperwork is complete and accurate on all processing conditions; completes status reports.


• Calculates rates and performance percentages for product runs.


• Distinguishes colors and duplicates those colors in the extrusion process.


• Establishes and maintains an effective line of communication with Quality Assurance department.


• Thoroughly understands all quality assurance procedures and programs; ensures all products are within individual client specifications.


• Monitors and manages shrink losses to acceptable limits/standards.


• Responsible for all product quality attributes.


• Evaluates product quality attributes; makes immediate adjustments to correct out-of-specification products.


• Anticipates technical problems; proactively troubleshoots (where appropriate) and makes technical adjustments and/or notifies maintenance.


• Responsible for maintaining a safe and clean work area and environment.


• Participate in a full facility and equipment clean-up between each product run as directed.


• Ensures required changeovers are completed accurately and efficiently.


• Knowledge & proficiency in Alphia Business Systems as it relates to Position.


• Responsible for becoming familiar with GMP’s and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) for all products.


• Complete simple production reports Required to notify a supervisor or a lead employee of any situation or observation that may adversely affect food safety and/or quality.


• Ensure the requirements of the CCP is met, and if a deviation occurs, notify Supervisor and Quality departments to hold all affected product.


• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

(To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required).

• Education level: High school diploma and/or GED preferred.


• Experience: Entry level


• Willing to work in a team environment and contribute to group goals.


• Excellent communication skills


• Ability to receive and provide instructions in a positive manner.


• Ability to communicate both verbally and in written form.


• Basic math skills include addition, subtraction, and percentages.


• Ability to multi-task.


• Alphia is an equal opportunity employer.


• We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Welcome to Alphia Careers! Hi there! We are Alphia, a leading pet food manufacturer dedicated to providing safe, high-quality food to feed more pets. Our team is committed to ensuring that we consistently provide the highest level of quality and service for our customers. We believe pets are the heart of all families, and we are dedicated to nourish and protect them.