Process Machine Operator I (Nights)

Process Machine Operator I

SunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers' growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.

The Process Machine Operator I will be required to process a variety of liquid products to ensure sterility. Ensures quality and efficiency standards are being met through reduced scrap loss and yield improvements by following written and verbal procedures. Follows all GMP and PPE requirements for the safety of others and oneself. Effectively communicates verbal and written information relevant to the position. Fill in for vacations and or cover if other employees are absent.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Coordinates process set-up of production, CIP, and sanitizing a variety of processing equipment to be completed in a timely manner. Maximizing the quality of products produced and the efficiency of the department.
• Maintains a clean and organized work area setting up the next shift for success.
• Begins to assist with routine maintenance as directed on all processing equipment. This includes but is not limited to valves, replacing "o" rings, homogenizer packings. Maintains oil level, air lines, sterile air filters and gaskets. Document correctly when filling out maintenance work orders and place into completed work order box.
• Relieves other production team members for breaks and absences as required
• Perform a variety of Critical Control Point (CCP) checks to assure standards are met. For example, verify steam and air pressure gauges as it relates to the process and their importance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving the processing equipment
• Accurately prepares and completes all area paperwork with legible handwriting as required by the FDA Fill and drain Tower water in the correct sequence and turning on the fans.
• Be able to adjust the steam valve for the steam injector as required.
• Understanding of the process flow from Aseptic Mixing through processing to Filling.
• Wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) when required.
• All other duties, as assigned.

Key Accountabilities:

Safety

• Adheres to all plant safety rules
• Reports all near misses and accidents to the production supervisor and or HR representative
• Serves an active role the plant safety programs, by participating in monthly safety inspections and reporting any potential safety hazards to the safety committee or Management

Quality:

• Adheres to all Quality Assurance System guidelines
• Follows SOP's and SSOP's (standard operating procedures and sanitation standard operating procedures) when making processing adjustments, to ensure the manufacturing of high-quality liquid-based products.
• Responsible for compliance with GMP's, HACCP and SQF programs
• Identifies all critical control points (CCP) understanding their functions it relates to the process.

Maintenance

• When Maintenance is occurring in your work area, it is the expectation to assist the maintenance technicians in any capacity needed to expedite the repair process.
• When equipment is in a state of disrepair, these items must be reported ASAP to avoid breakdowns.

Housekeeping

• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Assists all areas of the plant with general housekeeping
• Cooperates with other shifts and the management team in housekeeping endeavors

Communications

• As a member of the Production team, ensures effective shift communication and teamwork with other operators occurs each scheduled shift.
• Maintains effective communication with members of the support group.
• When utilizing the handheld radios, employees are expected to be professional and respectful when communicating.

Teamwork and Training

• Promotes and contributes to the development of a strong team.
• Works well among co-workers as a team.
• Assist in coaching and training employees as requested by the management team.

Personal Development

• Continuously improve your knowledge of the Aseptic Filling process.
• Become familiar with SunOpta 360.
• Completes and adheres to the Annual Alchemy Schedule.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Good attendance record.
• Must be able to perform maintenance on valves, surge tanks, and processors.
• Must be able to prepare and maintain accurate paperwork.
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Working knowledge of business, computer, and math.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment.
• Able to prioritize, meet deadlines, multi-task, and make decisions under pressure.
• Ability to work with minimal or no supervision.
• Must be able to run all processors, CIPs, and monitor all surge tanks.
• Understands procedures for all allergens and how to prevent cross contamination
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve moderate to complex issues associated with the processors and related equipment.
• Ability to assess a situation and make quick and accurate decisions that will aid in production.
• Must adhere to all GMP's and Safety Procedures established by Management
• Understand terminology related to the process and surge equipment
• Must be able to stand and work for long periods of time (12) hours and lift a minimum 30-50 pounds frequently and push/pull pallet jacks and lifts with heavy loads

Additional Considerations:

• Location: This position will be at our SunOpta Plant in Midlothian, TX.
• Shift: Night Shift (C) role - 6 pm to 6:30 am; role is on a 2-2-3 pattern.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED