Senior Extrusion Operator & Shift Lead

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.; Decatur (AR); On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

United Petfood Producers USA, Inc. is seeking a Lead Production Operator – Extrusion at our Decatur, Arkansas facility. The role combines hands-on extrusion duties with team leadership to ensure safe, efficient production of high-quality dry pet food.

You will coordinate daily extrusion tasks, mentor operators, and work closely with the Shift Supervisor to meet production goals while maintaining GMPs and food safety standards. Overtime and weekend work may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years operating extrusion equipment in a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum of one year in a manufacturing lead role coordinating production activities and providing technical guidance.
• Advanced knowledge of extrusion equipment setup, operation, troubleshooting, and adjustments.
• Experience performing production quality checks and maintaining accurate operating records.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily extrusion operations and support production schedules.
• Provide day-to-day work direction and technical guidance to operators.
• Assist with assigning and prioritizing tasks based on requirements and equipment.
• Monitor production progress and communicate priorities to meet targets.
• Lead or participate in shift startup meetings and safety briefings.
• Act as liaison between operators, supervisor, maintenance, and FSQA.
• Train and guide operators; ensure adherence to SOPs, GMPs, safety.

Skills

Extrusion operation

Lead or supervisory

Safety compliance

Quality checks

Equipment maintenance

Shift coordination

Training staff

Documentation

Reading SOPs

Job description

United Petfood Producers USA, Inc. is seeking a Lead Production Operator – Extrusion at our Decatur, Arkansas facility. The role combines hands-on extrusion duties with team leadership to ensure safe, efficient production of high-quality dry pet food.

You will coordinate daily extrusion tasks, mentor operators, and work closely with the Shift Supervisor to meet production goals while maintaining GMPs and food safety standards. Overtime and weekend work may be required.