Production Process Operator I - MIST (Mail-In Spore Testing)

Mesa Laboratories, Inc.; Bozeman (MT); On-site; USD 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan with company match

Health savings account

Accrued vacation time

Paid sick leave

Employee wellness resources

Paid holidays

Job summary

Mesa Laboratories, Inc. in Bozeman, Montana is seeking a Production Process Operator I for an entry-level role focused on assisting in the operation of production machinery. The position involves monitoring product quality, maintaining a safe work environment, and supporting inventory management. Candidates should have a high school diploma and basic mechanical aptitude. The role offers competitive pay starting at $20/hr plus benefits including a bonus opportunity and 401(k) plan.

Qualifications

• Less than 1 year of related experience.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of production machinery.
• Follow standard operating procedures ensuring product quality.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate with the warehouse team.
• Record daily production data and report any issues.

Skills

Basic mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Good communication skills

Ability to work as part of a team

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to make a difference? At Mesa Labs we're passionate about protecting the vulnerable by enabling scientific breakthroughs, ensuring product integrity, increasing patient and worker safety, and improving quality of life around the world.

At Mesa Labs we offer competitive wages, including bonus opportunity, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Base Compensation: $20/hr
This position is eligible for an annual 10% bonus opportunity in addition to the base salary

Outstanding Benefits and Perks

• Eligible for benefits the first day of the month after you start
• Tiered Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance options
• Health savings (HSA), healthcare & dependent care flexible spending (FSA) accounts
• Company paid short term and long-term disability (unless covered by a state disability plan)
• Company paid life insurance and AD&D
• 3 weeks of accrued vacation time; accruals begin on Day 1
• Paid sick leave of 48 hours per calendar year
• Eligible employees may receive four (4) weeks paid Care Giver leave after 1 year of service or in accordance with state leave laws
• 401(k) plan that provides a 4% Safe Harbor company match on a 4% employee contribution that begins on Day 1
• Employee Wellness and Financial Assistance Resources through Cigna and NY Life
• Nine (9) paid company holidays per year
• Overtime opportunities

This position supports Mesa's SDC business. Our Sterilization and Disinfection Control division manufactures and sells biological and chemical indicators that assess the effectiveness of sterilization and disinfection processes for pharmaceutical, healthcare, and dental industries.

Job Summary

The Production Process Operator I is an entry-level position responsible for assisting in the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of production machinery and equipment. Individuals in this role will be trained in the essential processes of production and will work under the supervision of more experienced operators and production supervisors. Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), ensuring product quality, maintaining a clean and safe work environment, and reporting any issues or discrepancies that may occur during the production process.

Duties / Responsibilities

Machine Operation and Setup

• Operate basic production machinery under the guidance of a more experienced operator or supervisor.
• Set up machines by loading raw materials, adjusting settings, and ensuring proper configuration for each production run.
• Assist with machine changeovers between product batches or runs, ensuring proper alignment, calibration, and material preparation.
• Monitor machine performance and make minor adjustments to maintain proper operating conditions and minimize downtime.

Quality Control and Inspection

• Perform basic inspections of products during production to ensure compliance with company specifications and quality standards.
• Monitor product dimensions, weight, appearance, and packaging to detect any quality issues.
• Document any defects, discrepancies, or quality control issues and report them to a higher-level operator or supervisor.
• Ensure the proper labeling, packaging, and storage of products as per company and regulatory requirements.

Material Handling and Inventory

• Assist in the loading and unloading of raw materials and finished goods on and off production lines.
• Monitor inventory levels of raw materials used in the production process, ensuring materials are available when needed and helping track material usage.
• Communicate with the warehouse or inventory team to restock materials as necessary.
• Handle materials safely and efficiently, following proper storage and handling protocols to avoid damage and waste.

Maintenance Support

• Perform basic cleaning and routine maintenance on machines and equipment, such as cleaning filters, changing out product containers, and performing general maintenance tasks.
• Notify maintenance personnel or supervisors when equipment issues or malfunctions are detected.
• Follow maintenance schedules and document maintenance activities according to company protocols.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to cleanliness and safety standards.

Safety and Compliance

• Follow all safety protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure a safe work environment.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by company policies.
• Adhere to safety guidelines and ensure that workspaces are free from hazards such as spills, obstructions, or improperly stored materials.
• Participate in regular safety meetings and contribute to maintaining a culture of safety on the production floor.

Documentation and Reporting

• Record daily production data, including materials used, quantities produced, and any incidents or maintenance activities that occurred during the shift.
• Complete quality control checklists and any required forms or logs accurately.
• Report production progress, equipment performance, and any problems to the shift supervisor or senior operator.
• Assist in completing production reports at the end of each shift or production run.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with fellow operators, maintenance staff, and supervisors to ensure smooth production operations.
• Communicate effectively with team members, ask questions when unsure, and take direction from more experienced staff members.
• Participate in team meetings to discuss production goals, safety, quality control, and any issues that arise during operations.

Experience / Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Less than 1 year of related experience.

Knowledge & Skillsets Required

• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn how to operate and troubleshoot production machinery.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in identifying product quality issues.
• Ability to follow instructions and work under the supervision of more experienced operators and supervisors.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, for reporting issues and providing updates.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Willingness to follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Basic computer skills for data entry, reporting, and documentation purposes.

Physical Demands (US Only)

• Standing or walking: Frequently during production processes and equipment operation.
• Lifting: Handling and moving materials or products, sometimes heavy.
• Manual dexterity: Using tools and operating machinery with precision.
• Bending and crouching.

Environmental Conditions

• Workspace: Climate control (air conditioning or heating) to ensure comfort.
• Lighting: Artificial lighting.
• Noise Levels: Light to moderate.
• Ergonomics.
• Ventilation: Good ventilation to ensure a comfortable working environment, though this can vary.

EEO Statement

Mesa Labs is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Mesa Labs prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment against applicants or employees based on age, race, sex, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, disability, military status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law. Please note that Mesa Labs conducts criminal background checks upon offer acceptance.