Production Operator

HGS BioScience; Shelby (MT); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Savings and retirement plan with employer match

Paid time-off starting at three weeks a year

Career pathing and developmental opportunities

Job summary

HGS BioScience in Shelby, Montana, is seeking a Production Operator I–III. This role involves operating equipment for humic powder production, adhering to safety standards, and collaborating with a supportive team.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma and experience in manufacturing. There is room for advancement from Tier I to Tier III based on skills and performance. HGS BioScience offers competitive compensation and benefits, along with career pathing opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proficient in housekeeping and sanitation practices.
• Ability to complete forklift training and obtain certification.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate production equipment.
• Support material handling and inventory accuracy.
• Collaborate with team members for operational support.

Skills

Basic mechanical aptitude

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Teamwork and collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift operation

Quality control documentation

Job description

HGS Bioscience is a fast-growing, agriculture-based manufacturing team. Our people are at the center of our success, and we are committed to building a supportive, growth-oriented workplace.

We are seeking a Production Operator I–III, who is responsible for safely and efficiently operating equipment and processes involved in the production of humic powder products. This role supports material handling, liquid and batch processing, granulation, drying, quality control documentation, and equipment care. Operator level (Tier I, II, or III) is determined based on qualifications, technical proficiency, and demonstrated operational leadership.

• Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and housekeeping standards
• Operate production equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Accurately complete production activity sheets, logs, and quality control documentation
• Support material handling, inventory accuracy, and cycle count activities
• Collaborate effectively with team members, supervisors, and quality personnel
• Identify and report safety concerns, process deviations, or equipment issues

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Three (3) years of manufacturing experience may be considered in lieu of educational requirements
• Ability to follow all safety policies and procedures
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn production equipment
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to work in a physically demanding industrial setting

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, lift, and perform repetitive tasks throughout a shift
• Ability to lift up to required production limits with or without accommodation
• Exposure to dust, heat, noise, and industrial equipment typical of a powder manufacturing environment

Operators are classified into Tier I, II, or III based on demonstrated skills, certifications, equipment proficiency, and leadership within the production environment. This role supports a clear advancement pathway from Tier I to Tier III, based on skills acquisition, certifications, performance, and operational leadership.

Entry/Foundational Operator

• Proficient in housekeeping and sanitation practices
• Ability to complete forklift training and obtain certification within the first week of employment
• Ability to properly operate and maintain the centrifuge
• Accurate completion of activity sheets including time, date, quality control, and quality testing requirements
• Knowledgeable of material handling operations
• Proficient in with cycle counts and inventory evaluations
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrates teamwork and collaboration

Intermediate/Skilled Operator

• Meets all Tier I qualifications
• Serves as a subject matter expert in material handling
• Proficient in liquid processing and batch execution
• Proficient in boiler operations
• Intermediate proficiency in granulation operations
• Advanced accuracy in quality control testing and production documentation
• Knowledge of basic equipment care and troubleshooting
• Able to obtain certification on site‑specific heavy equipment

Advanced/Lead Operator

• Meets all Tier II qualifications
• Proficient in spray dryer operations
• Fully proficient in granulation operations
• Advanced equipment care and troubleshooting capability
• Acts as a subject matter expert across the following areas:
  • Safety and housekeeping
  • Forklift and heavy equipment operation
  • Liquid and batch processing
  • Teamwork and communication
• Provides minor training and operational guidance to other operators
• Provides support on oversight and execution of assignments
• Possesses a basic understanding of NetSuite

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits packages
• Savings and retirements plan with employer match
• Paid time‑off, starting at three (3) weeks a year
• Career pathing and developmental opportunities