Production Operator - Fish Food

I Want the News; Franklin (WI); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

401k with company match

Paid time off

Job summary

I Want the News in Franklin, WI is hiring for a production operator to set up, monitor, and adjust packaging equipment in a fast-paced food production environment.

You will follow FSMA and PPE requirements, handle materials including allergens, and work with the team to meet daily targets while maintaining high safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing or food production is preferred.
• Ability to operate machinery and perform basic troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with production systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor production equipment per procedures.
• Adjust machine settings to sustain efficiency and quality.
• Produce and package products following quality standards.
• Follow food safety requirements including PPE.
• Handle materials and allergens safely and accurately.
• Perform routine equipment checks and report issues.
• Maintain production records and documentation.
• Assist with inventory and material staging.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation per safety rules.
• Follow OSHA procedures and participate in safety initiatives.
• Collaborate with team to meet daily targets.
• Perform repetitive tasks with speed and accuracy.
• Support continuous improvement to reduce waste.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Skills

Stand/walk for long shifts

Operate machinery

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Independent work

Safety compliance

Repetitive tasks

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Shift Details: Monday – Thursday, 5am – 3:30pm with Potential Overtime on Friday

Location: Franklin, WI

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up, operate, and monitor food production and packaging equipment according to established procedures.
• Adjust machine settings to maintain efficiency, product integrity, and quality output.
• Produce and package fish food products in compliance with company and regulatory quality standards.
• Follow all food safety requirements, including FSMA guidelines and proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Handle raw materials and finished goods, including potential allergens such as shellfish, safely and accurately.
• Perform routine equipment checks and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs.
• Maintain accurate production records and complete required documentation.
• Assist with inventory handling, including staging materials and reporting discrepancies.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of work areas in accordance with food safety standards.
• Follow all OSHA safety procedures and participate in safety initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet daily production targets.
• Perform repetitive tasks with attention to detail, speed, and accuracy.
• Support continuous improvement efforts to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Perform other duties as assigned based on business needs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in manufacturing or food production environment preferred.
• Ability to operate machinery and perform basic troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with production systems is a plus.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Must be able to stand/walk for a 10-hour shift. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with or without accommodation. Work in a food production environment with exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures. Potential exposure to allergens such as fish and shellfish. Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Free Life and Disability Insurance
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick time
• Employee Assistance Program
• Access to thousands of free online courses
• Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
• Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications)
• Referral Program with cash bonus
• Access to on-demand pay
• Paid parental leave

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2023 net sales of $3.3 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the Pet and Garden industries. The Company’s innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Cadet®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Four Paws®, Kaytee®, K&H®, Nylabone® and Pennington®, strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central is based in Walnut Creek, California and has 6,700 employees across North America and Europe. Visit www.central.com to learn more.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.