Production Operators

balchem; Defiance (OH); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Balchem Corporation is seeking an Operator to correctly follow SOPs and operate production equipment in Defiance, OH. This role focuses on proper mixing of powders, safe cleansing, and adherence to sanitation practices.

The position requires mechanical aptitude, teamwork, and the ability to learn and apply SOP guidelines while maintaining high cleanliness and safety standards throughout the shift.

Qualifications

• Must be able to learn and master all SOPs and procedures.
• Strong mechanical knowledge for operation and minor repairs.
• Demonstrated ability to work safely and follow GMP guidelines.
• Reliable, self-disciplined team member capable of handling emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Set up all operational parameters and equipment before production start-up as described in the SOP.
• Operate equipment during production to maintain powder quality and consistency as defined by SOP.
• Shut down machinery and related equipment per SOP.
• Clean and sanitize all product contact surfaces and equipment.
• Complete any provided checklists for operating and cleaning equipment.
• Maintain peak operating efficiency of all equipment and keep work areas clean and dry.
• Attend company-mandated training sessions (Safety, GMP, etc.).
• Follow Confined Space regulations.
• Submit work orders for maintenance as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by plant management.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Safety-conscious

Team player

Ability to follow SOP

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Balchem Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets specialty ingredients that improve and enhance the health and well-being of life on the planet, providing state-of-the-art solutions and the finest quality products for a range of industries worldwide. Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the US and Europe. Founded in 1967, Balchem is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ – “BCPC”) with annual revenues over $900 million and a market cap exceeding $4.0 billion. The company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition & Health; Animal Nutrition & Health; and Specialty Products. Balchem employs over 1,400 people worldwide who are engaged in diverse activities, committed to developing the company into global market leadership positions. To learn more about our dynamic, stable and growing company, visit www.balchem.com

POSITION SUMMARY

The Operator will properly carry out all duties as defined below under the Work Performed category. This person will be charged with correctly following all SOP guidelines related to this job. All work will be performed in a safe and sanitary manner. Duties include (but are not limited to): proper mixing of powdered products to meet customer defined specifications – as measured by bulk density, particle size, customer liquification tests, and powder flow. Proper cleanup and sanitation of all equipment surfaces both during and after production are important job components. A thorough knowledge and understanding of all equipment and controls is necessary for successful qualification.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Properly and safely set up all operational parameters and related equipment prior to Production start-up as described in the SOP
• Properly operate all necessary equipment during production to maintain powder quality and consistency as defined by company specified requirements and SOP directions
• Properly and safely shut down the machinery and all related equipment as described in the SOP
• Properly clean all equipment associated with operations as described in the SOP; this includes a thorough knowledge of proper sanitation techniques to completely clean and sanitize all product contact surfaces
• Properly complete any provided checklists for operating and cleaning equipment
• Maintain peak operating efficiency of all equipment
• Maintain all associated work areas in a clean, neat, and dry manner during the entire shift
• Attend all company mandated training sessions – these include Safety, Good Manufacturing Practices, etc.
• Consistently follows all Confined Space regulations
• Can correctly complete and submit work orders requiring a maintenance person
• Effectively performs all other duties as assigned or directed by plant management

REQUIREMENTS

• Must be 18 years of age
• Must have enough education to follow all written and oral instructions.
• Must be able to learn and master all necessary knowledge to maintain efficient and effective operation of all procedures and associated equipment.
• Must have mechanical knowledge and ability for minor equipment repairs and maintenance
• Must be self-disciplined, a team player, and be able to handle emergency situations common to the operation
• Must be able to maintain and display personal cleanliness and follow all GMP guidelines as required by the company and regulatory agencies
• Must be able to write clearly and in an organized fashion
• Must be able to reach an acceptable level of task proficiency within a 4‑week training period
• Competency is determined by a Demonstration of Ability module conducted by the department Supervisor

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Hours are subject to change depending on production requirements
• Additional hours may be required
• During periods of equipment downtime, Operators are expected to perform maintenance on idle equipment, clean designated areas, or other assigned tasks
• Wet, slippery stairs and floors from ingredients and water solutions
• High noise areas present
• High speed moving parts and equipment
• Live steam and steam heated water
• Corrosive chemicals present – use of Personal Protective Equipment is required when handling chemicals
• Routine stair climbing
• Routine lifting of heavy weights
• Use of natural gas as the drying fuel
• Combustible dust

Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.