Slice Line Operator

Job Title

Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc. (OSF) is seeking an experienced Slice Line Operator for its Moses Lake Apple Processing Facility.

The Slice Line Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the equipment to its highest capabilities by meeting or exceeding production line standards and will actively participate in workplace safety. This position assists all aspects of the slice line operations to maximize efficiency.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Oversee, operate and maintain multiple apple slice lines in a single slice room
• Understand and prepare equipment, such as changing blades for the specific cut size to be used based on orders
• Identify product defects quickly and makes necessary adjustments immediately
• Become an expert on the processing equipment being used and how to adjust tolerances for efficiency, productivity, while maintaining quality grade.
• Observe the flow of the production line and identify any area of improvement
• Maintain equipment effectively assuring that it remains in good working order
• Troubleshoot equipment failure and inefficiencies
• Perform maintenance and repairs to equipment as needed or designated by Maintenance manager
• Perform equipment changeovers quickly and ensure the production line continues to run smoothly and efficiently with no unnecessary delays
• Responsible to verify staged raw materials for production run at the beginning and end of shift
• Perform basic math and data entry
• Complete daily operations paperwork (electronically or manually as required) accurately and on time
• Collaboration with all departments is of upmost importance
  • Communicate routinely with the Production and Quality Supervisor/Manager providing status updates on efficiency, downtime or any pending issues or concerns
  • Collaboration with the production, quality and warehouse teams that support the overall operations
• Perform cleaning activities as necessary on processing and packaging equipment and accurately documenting activities, using a variety of industrial cleaning chemicals
• Follow all food safety and food quality standards, regulations and laws
• Remains current in training expectations
• Support any position on the processing line as needed
• Follow occupational safety, PPE, and security rules and precautions
• Demonstrate a daily commitment to continuous improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

Desired Key Competencies:

• High level of mechanical experience and aptitude
• Industrial equipment operations and maintenance; Food Processing operations a plus
• The ability to communicate well with the employees at all levels of the company
• High attention to detail
• The ability to work collaboratively and independently on various types of tasks
• The ability to speak, read and write in English
• The ability to follow instructions, and work independently with little guidance in a fast-paced environment
• The ability to remain positive and adapt to change
• Food Safety Standard knowledge (BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard preferred)
• Knowledge and understanding of GMPs
• The ability to troubleshoot inefficient or malfunctioned equipment under your control to a mechanical level
• Ability to precisely follow necessary recipes directions
• Basic understanding of computer software and ability to utilize equipment specific programs
• Track record of safe work history
• Proficient math ability for use in production reporting & inventory control

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent preferred
• 2+ years experience in food processing preferred
• 1 year Cutter or Slice Operator Level experience in food processing desired
• Apple slicing and packaging experience preferred

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs. safely
• Standing for long periods of time, frequent twisting and bending, use of both hands, manual & finger dexterity for rolling/manipulating
• Climbing ladders
• Being in cold, wet, and damp climates of 33F-38F for long periods of time
• Exposure to loud noises
• The use of safety equipment when operating machinery that may include protective clothing, safety glasses, hearing protectors, and safety shoes
• Repetitive motions

GMP & Food Safety Requirements:

• This position requires compliance with all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and food safety policies.
• Employees must follow all sanitation, hygiene, and PPE requirements.
• Visible body piercings, jewelry, and any other prohibited personal items are not allowed on the production floor to ensure product safety and regulatory compliance.