Clean-In Place (CIP) Operator - 2nd Shift

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The CIP Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring the Clean-in-Place (CIP) systems used to sanitize processing equipment and pipelines in accordance with established standards and procedures. This role plays a critical part in ensuring food safety, product quality, and regulatory compliance in a sanitary manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, dependable, and committed to upholding high sanitation and safety standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

CIP System Operation:

• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot Clean-in-Place (CIP) systems to clean and sanitize process equipment, tanks, piping, and lines.
• Ensure all cleaning cycles meet specified parameters, including time, temperature, flow rate, and chemical concentration.
• Program or adjust automated CIP control systems according to specific cleaning protocols and production schedules.
• Verify the correct cleaning circuit is selected and connected to the proper equipment before initiating the CIP cycle.
• Record cleaning times and performance data to verify effectiveness and regulatory compliance.

Chemical Handling and Monitoring:

• Safely handle and mix sanitation chemicals per manufacturer specifications and internal procedures.
• Monitor chemical levels and concentration using titration, test kits, or digital sensors; adjust dosages as necessary.
• Maintain and replenish chemical inventories, report low stock or irregularities to the supervisor.
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and disposal of all sanitation chemicals according to OSHA and company guidelines.

Sanitation and Cleaning Validation:

• Ensure all cleaned equipment meets sanitary standards before being released for production use.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to investigate and resolve cleaning or hygiene-related issues.
• Assist in the development and improvement of sanitation procedures and CIP protocols.

Documentation and Compliance:

• Complete detailed and accurate documentation of all cleaning and sanitation activities in logs, forms, or digital systems.
• Maintain records for internal audits, customer inspections, and regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA, USDA).
• Ensure compliance with GMPs, HACCP, FSMA, and other applicable sanitation standards.
• Participate in regular internal sanitation audits and implement corrective actions as needed.

Equipment Maintenance and Support:

• Conduct routine inspections of CIP equipment for leaks, wear, and proper function.
• Perform basic preventive maintenance, such as replacing gaskets, valves, or fittings as directed.
• Report any malfunctioning equipment or system abnormalities to the maintenance team or supervisor immediately.
• Assist maintenance or external technicians during service and repair of CIP-related systems.

Production and Cross-Departmental Support:

• Coordinate with production, maintenance, and quality departments to schedule cleaning activities without disrupting operations.
• Assist in pre-operational checks and reassembly of equipment after cleaning.
• Support training efforts for new sanitation or production staff regarding CIP procedures and safety.
• Assist with manual cleaning (Clean-Out-of-Place - COP) when equipment cannot be cleaned via CIP systems.

Safety and Housekeeping:

• Follow all workplace safety protocols, including the use of PPE, chemical handling procedures, and lockout/tagout protocols.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring all equipment and tools are returned to their designated locations.
• Clean up spills immediately and report any slip, trip, or fall hazards to the safety team or supervisor.
• Actively participate in safety meetings, training sessions, and hazard identification activities

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• 1 year prior experience in a CIP role in a food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or dairy manufacturing environment preferred.
• Knowledge of CIP systems, cleaning chemicals, and sanitation principles.
• Ability to understand and follow detailed instructions, SOPs, and safety procedures.
• Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, and food safety regulations is a plus.
• Basic computer skills and ability to complete electronic records or logbooks.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness and safety.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for long periods, and work in wet/hot/cold environments.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, or overtime as needed.

2nd Shift (2:00pm - 10:00pm)