Formulator/Mixer - 1st/2nd Shift

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Formulator – 1st Shift

Job Description

The Formulator plays a key role in safely processing raw materials and chemicals to produce high-quality finished products in a manufacturing plant. You follow detailed batch records and recipes, operate formulation and mixing equipment, measure and verify raw materials, and take product samples for quality testing. This is a hands-on, physically demanding role that involves working at heights, using cranes to lift large bags of chemicals, and operating computer-controlled systems to monitor and control tank levels. You ensure accurate documentation, adhere to strict safety procedures, and remain flexible to perform other work-related duties as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret batch records and recipes to determine the correct sequence and quantity of raw materials and chemicals required for each production run.
• Measure and weigh raw materials using scales and measurement equipment, verifying balances to ensure accurate amounts are added to each batch.
• Operate mixers, tanks, and other formulation machinery to combine raw materials and create final products according to specifications.
• Use cranes and other lifting equipment to handle large plastic bags of chemicals and safely transfer materials into tanks.
• Push material out of bags using large mixing devices and tools, ensuring all material is properly transferred and incorporated into the batch.
• Climb stairs and access elevated platforms to monitor and work at the top of tanks as needed during the mixing process.
• Operate computer-based systems to monitor and control tank levels, process parameters, and equipment status throughout production.
• Collect samples from batches and deliver them to the laboratory for quality control testing, following established sampling procedures.
• Review and sign off on production documents to confirm that correct materials, quantities, and steps were followed for each batch.
• Follow written and verbal instructions carefully while working independently to complete assigned production tasks.
• Maintain a high level of attention to detail in reporting, documentation, and process checks to support product quality and traceability.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols, including the use of respirators, uniforms, and other personal protective equipment when working around chemicals.
• Perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting or moving up to 50 pounds and working on your feet for extended periods.
• Collaborate with a small formulation team, communicating effectively and supporting colleagues to meet production goals.
• Remain open and adaptable to performing additional work-related duties as assigned within the manufacturing and chemical plant environment.

Essential Skills

• Ability to read and follow batch records and recipes accurately.
• Experience checking balances and using scales to ensure correct amounts of raw materials are added.
• Proficiency in measuring chemicals and applying basic math skills in a production environment.
• Hands-on experience as a machine operator, utility technician, or production technician, particularly in mixing or formulation.
• Comfort operating mixers, tanks, and related chemical mixing equipment.
• Strong attention to detail for reporting, documentation, and process verification.
• Ability to follow instructions carefully while working independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated physical strength and stamina, including the ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds.
• Manufacturing experience, with 2–4 years of experience preferred.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Dependability and reliability, with a track record of consistent attendance and follow-through.
• Ability to learn quickly, listen actively, and collaborate effectively with a team.
• Comfort working in a reserved, focused, “heads-down” team environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience using RF scanners in a production or warehouse environment.
• Experience in formulation, chemical mixing, or chemical production.
• Familiarity with quality control processes and taking samples for lab analysis.
• Experience as a mixer operator or in other production roles within a manufacturing or plant setting.
• Comfort using measurement equipment and scales in a production setting.
• Ability to maintain composure and focus in a chemical plant environment with moving equipment and potential exposure to fumes and airborne particles.
• Willingness to work in a contract-to-hire or direct placement arrangement.
• Motivated, proactive approach with a “go-getter” mindset while remaining open to learning and not assuming to know everything.
• Ability to fit into a small team of 2–3 people, contributing to a collaborative and supportive work culture.

Why Work Here?

You join a team-oriented environment that values a family-like culture, where employees feel supported, respected, and encouraged to perform at their best. The organization emphasizes core values summarized as R.A.P.I.D.S.—Responsive, Attitude, Proactive, Integrity, Dependability, and Safety—creating a workplace built on trust, accountability, and care. The site has experienced significant growth over the last several years, expanding its facilities while maintaining a close-knit atmosphere. You benefit from a culture that prioritizes safety, inclusion, and long-term opportunity, offering a stable environment where you can develop your skills and grow your career.

Work Environment

This is a fully on-site role within a manufacturing and chemical plant facility located in Des Moines, Iowa. You work in a plant environment around moving equipment and mechanical parts, with potential exposure to fumes, airborne particles, chemicals, and biological hazards. The formulation team typically consists of 2–3 people, creating a small, focused group where most team members work in a reserved, heads-down manner.

The position follows an on-site shift schedule. One schedule involves a second shift, Monday through Friday, starting between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., working 8- to 10-hour shifts. Another schedule includes a summer shift of Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a busier season from October through April. This role is offered as a contract-to-hire or direct placement opportunity.

You work in a highly regulated environment that requires strict adherence to safety protocols. Dress code includes full uniforms, steel-toed boots, hair nets, and the use of respirator masks due to chemical exposure. You are required to shower after your shift to maintain safety and hygiene standards. The role involves physical work, including climbing stairs to access tank tops, lifting or moving up to 50 pounds, and standing for extended periods while operating equipment and monitoring processes.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Moines, IA.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Des Moines,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 27, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.