Production Operator - Ames, IA

dsm-firmenich; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 2,480,000 - 3,306,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Growth opportunities

Purpose-led culture

Brand/product impact

Competitive pay

Job summary

dsm-firmenich in Ames, IA is seeking a Production Operator to safely run production lines, weigh materials, and ensure batches meet quality targets. You will print batch labels, perform inspections, and support sanitation per 5S and cGMP guidelines. A forklift and basic computer skills are preferred to support operations.

The role offers a competitive hourly wage, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth within a purpose-driven company focused on nutrition, health, and sustainability.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; read, write, and perform simple math calculations.
• Minimum 6 months related experience preferred.
• Ability to operate computers.
• Must be able to operate a forklift.
• Knowledge of Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality policies in the workplace.

Responsibilities

• Handle raw materials, transport from storage to dispenser room, weigh as required, and add to batch.
• Perform batch labeling, reconciliation, and inspection activities for premixes.
• Monitor and record process conditions; report deviations and assist investigations.
• Maintain housekeeping per 5S and cGMP requirements.
• Communicate production status to shift supervisor and colleagues.

Skills

Forklift operation

Computer skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift

Job description

Production Operator - Ames, IA

The Production Operator will conduct production activities and operate production equipment in accordance with the plant capacity and meet order shipment requirements in conformity with SHE requirements, SOP's and Quality standards. Perform all duties associated with the production of custom premixes. If necessary, receives, unloads, stores, delivers and ships raw and finished materials.

Key Responsibilities:

• Handle raw materials, transport from storage to dispenser room, weigh raw materials as required per the batch requirements and add to required dump station/mixer. Production operators conduct inspection and reconciliation of batch labels for premixes, fill silos, complete final packaging activities, sample per batch requirement, complete incoming 3PRM sampling and visual inspection and release activities, finished goods visual inspection and release activities, sample preparation for homogeneity, carryover, process monitoring and quality.
• Run lab submissions as well as safely palletize and store raw materials finished goods.
• Able to work unsupervised in pre-weigh, batch build, and production areas.
• Monitor equipment and production process parameters; record process conditions and actions.
• Report deviations found with the process, 3PRM and finished goods. Assist in quality related deviation investigations and corrective actions taken in response.
• Advise Lead Utility Mechanic of maintenance issues to ensure continuous efficient operation of process.
• Complete housekeeping activities, including completion of tasks noted on the Master Sanitation Schedule within area of responsibility, in compliance with guidelines, orders and instructions, cGMPs, 5S and other programs/requirements fall into housekeeping requirements and must be followed.
• Communicate relevant information regarding production to incoming shift supervisor/colleagues.
• Conduct batch label printing and label reconciliation activities for each batch.
• Complete all required computer-based training modules on Training Compass.
• Attend formal training classes (e.g. safety, quality, problem solving, SDS, etc.).

We Bring:

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits
• A place to grow and develop
• A company that is purpose-led and performance-driven in a corporate culture that values people and planet
• The opportunity to work on growing brands and build on a strong foundation
• The chance to make improvements and make an impact on the business

You Bring:

• High school diploma or equivalent. Must be able to read, write and perform simple math calculations.
• Minimum 6-month related experience preferred.
• Ability to operate computers.
• Must be able to operate a forklift.
• Knowledge of, adherence to and enforcement of dsm-firmenich Corporate policies addressing Safety, Health, and Environmental and Quality requirements.

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will bebased on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. Hourly.

In addition to base salary, we also offer a comprehensive total rewards package, inclusive of annual incentive pay, a retirement savings plan, health care coverage,paid time off, recognition programs and a broad range of other benefits. All benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don't just meet expectations - we go beyond them. Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life. From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions - every single day. Whether it's fragrancethat helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health,and beauty for everyone, everywhere. And while you're making a difference, we'll make sure you're growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts youup and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They're essential to our future. Because real progressonly happens when we go beyond, together.

Inclusion, Belonging and Equal Opportunity Statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work - and that's exactly the kind of culture we're building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we're serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we're committed to reflecting the world we serve. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you. And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we're here to help - just let us know what you need, and we'll do everything we can to make it work.