Manufacturing Production Operator

Production OperatorAt Balchem we are committed to making the world a healthier place by delivering trusted, innovative, and science-based solutions to the nutrition, health, and food markets. Our Lincoln, Nebraska location specializes in the production and packaging of high-quality cereal with options that are organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the US and Europe. Founded in 1967, Balchem is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ – "BCPC") with annual revenues over $900 million and a market cap exceeding $4.0 billion. The company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition & Health; Animal Nutrition & Health; and Specialty Products. Balchem employs over 1,400 people worldwide who are engaged in diverse activities, committed to developing the company into global market leadership positions.We are seeking a diligent production operator to join our team, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts available. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining the continual operation of the Cooker and Extruder machines by maintaining machinery, keeping the workspace clean and safe, and adhering to all OSHA standards, quality standards, and Balchem Policies. Our ideal candidate has experience with machinery, is familiar with the manufacturing process from raw material to finished product and/or has prior food handling related experience. You should be able to follow instructions, work as part of a team, and maintain high-quality work standards at all times.Essential FunctionsCommunicate with other Operators, being aware of timing and speed, while maintaining the standards of productOperate the Cooker and/or Extruder machine making necessary changes, including but not limited to continual operation and unloading, setting up feed systems, screw configuration, and perform basic troubleshooting efforts, while ensuring adherence to all Standard Operating ProceduresMaintain the necessary functions of the augers, scales, slurry injector, and understand the need to vent steam, and cook cycle times to ensure product flow to surge binProperly utilize the Programmable Logic Controller, loading the recipe, and both manual and auto cooker operations, making necessary changes if neededMaintain accurate and up-to-date records, reporting any discrepancies or concernsAccurately handle all paperwork and collect data, maintaining proper reporting in the ERP systems for all returned ingredientsMonitor product quality and promptly notify the appropriate personnel of any issues that ariseMaintain a sanitary work area adhering to all OSHA standards and Balchem Corporation's Standard Operating Procedures including but not limited to in process, end of shift, end of run, quarterly and as otherwise directedAlways maintaining a high level of awareness for all safety measures including OSHA regulations and procedures set forth by Balchem Corporation's management, including proper use of Lock out/Tag out proceduresPerform other duties as assignedRequirementsHigh School diploma or general education degree (GED)Three to six months of related experience and/or training is preferredYou must be equipped with strong motivation, organization, time management, and communication skills (both orally and written)You must be able to read and comprehend simple instructionsHave excellent attention to detail and the ability to multi-task and prioritizePossess effective communication and conflict resolution skillsThe ability to distinguish colors is requiredAbility to give and welcome feedback and contribute to building a positive team spiritWorking ConditionsYou will continually be required to stand, walk, use hands for handling or feeling objects, talk, and use your vision and hearing abilitiesRegularly, you will be required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl, following proper ergonomic principlesPeriodically required to lift up to and above 50 and 100 pounds, utilizing safe and proper lifting techniques and equipmentOccasionally you may operate equipment, including but not limited to computers, drafting equipment and instruments involving scientific meters and measuring devicesRequired to adhere to all personal protective equipment policies and proceduresYou will rarely be exposed to wet or humid conditions, working near moving mechanical parts, work in extreme heat (non-weather), or work in high noise levels and vibrationYou may also periodically work in high or precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, and extreme cold (non-weather)What We Offer1st Shift (7am-3pm), 2nd Shift (3pm-11pm), 3rd Shift (11pm-7am)Shift differential rate: 2nd Shift ($1 extra per hour), 3rd Shift ($1.50 extra per hour)Medical/Dental/Vision Plan Insurance after 1st month401(k) with 6% employer match after 60 daysPaid Time OffUniforms and safety shoes providedTuition Reimbursement after 2 years (work-related)Free CerealPlease note that 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 the job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.