Meat Processing Operator 1st shift

Job Description

Job Description

The Meat Processing Operator is responsible for the hands-on processing, handling, and packaging of meat-based products at NaturPak’s Innovation Facility in Janesville, WI. This role is critical to the production of premium pet nutrition products — ensuring that all meat ingredients are processed safely, accurately, and in full compliance with food safety and quality standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

●Operate meat processing equipment including grinders, slicers, blenders, and portioning machinery per established SOPs.

●Receive, inspect, and document incoming raw meat materials — verify weight, temperature, and condition against spec.

●Prepare and stage meat ingredients for production runs per batch records and formulation requirements.

●Monitor and record Critical Control Points (CCPs) and processing parameters throughout the shift.

●Perform end-of-run cleanouts, CIP/COP procedures, and equipment sanitization per food safety protocols.

●Identify, segregate, and properly hold non-conforming product; notify QA/QC immediately.

●Complete all required production records, batch logs, and traceability documentation in real time.

●Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the shift in compliance with GMP and food safety standards.

●Properly manage meat waste, trimmings, and byproducts per USDA and facility disposal procedures.

●Report equipment issues, safety hazards, or quality concerns to the Line Lead or Supervisor immediately.

●Follow all safety, food safety, GMP, HACCP, and OSHA requirements at all times.

Qualifications

Required

●High school diploma or GED equivalent.

●Minimum 1 year of experience in food manufacturing, meat processing, or a USDA/FDA-regulated facility.

●Demonstrated knowledge of GMP and food safety practices.

●Ability to read and follow written SOPs, batch records, and work instructions.

●Reliable attendance; ability to work assigned shifts including evenings, weekends, and overtime as needed.

●Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety and quality.

Preferred

●Prior experience in pet food manufacturing or USDA-inspected processing environments.

●Familiarity with HACCP principles and Critical Control Points.

●Experience operating industrial grinders, slicers, or portioning equipment.

●Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

Physical Requirements

●Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods on a production floor.

●Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling of up to 50 lbs; occasional lifts up to 60 lbs with assistance.

●Ability to work in cold environments (34–40&degree;F) and warm processing zones.

●Must be able to bend, reach, and perform repetitive hand/wrist motions.

●Must be able to wear required PPE: hair/beard net, safety shoes, cut-resistant gloves, apron, and hearing protection.

Work Environment

Work is performed at NaturPak’s Innovation Facility at Janesville, WI. This is a USDA-inspected, high-volume pet food manufacturing environment. Operators work in temperature-controlled meat handling and processing areas. The environment includes exposure to cold temperatures (34–40&degree;F), wet surfaces, industrial equipment noise, and steam. Strict adherence to GMP, food safety, HACCP, OSHA, and all NaturPak workplace safety requirements is always mandatory.