Production Operator

Position Summary
The Production Operator is responsible for safely operating production equipment and executing manufacturing processes to produce high-quality products in accordance with established procedures, quality standards, and safety requirements. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical troubleshooting, accurate recordkeeping, and the ability to monitor equipment, perform quality checks, and support continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate designated production equipment to execute manufacturing processes safely, efficiently, and in accordance with established work instructions.
• Select, stage, move, and load raw materials and intermediates into production equipment using the correct quantities and sequence based on bills of materials, formulas, and process instructions.
• Monitor gauges, instruments, and operating conditions to ensure product is manufactured within required specifications and quality standards.
• Perform and document required in-process and final quality checks to verify product quality before release or transfer.
• Accurately complete production records, batch documentation, raw material receipts, quality sample logs, and equipment/process performance records.
• Prepare product for the next stage of production or final shipment according to department packaging and handling requirements.
• Support efficient, uninterrupted production by identifying issues, reporting abnormalities promptly, and contributing to process improvements.
• Perform routine cleaning, basic care, and operational checks of equipment and laboratory instruments to maintain readiness and reliability.
• Communicate production status, equipment concerns, and process information clearly and in a timely manner to supervisors and team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Quality, Safety, Health, and Environment (QSHE)

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area through strong housekeeping practices and attention to plant cleanliness.
• Work in accordance with all applicable quality, safety, health, and environmental requirements, including internal policies, procedures, and emergency response expectations.
• Understand the significant QSHE aspects and impacts associated with the role, including applicable legal and operational requirements.
• Use the Corporate Sustainability Policy and Integrated Management System (IMS) as guidance for continuous improvement in safety, quality, and environmental performance.
• Report unsafe conditions, incidents, near misses, and quality concerns promptly and appropriately.

Qualifications

Education
High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience
Five years of industrial or manufacturing experience in a chemical, mineral, or related production environment preferred. Experience supporting maintenance activities in a manufacturing or related operation is preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

• Good command of spoken and written English required.
• Basic computer skills required; experience with production systems or electronic recordkeeping is preferred.
• Laboratory experience and basic chemistry knowledge are preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and other internal partners.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, and weekends, including independent operation of the facility during nights or weekends, if required.
• Ability to work indoors and occasionally outdoors in conditions that may include heat, cold, dirt, and noise.
• Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Must be capable of lifting up to 50 lbs. and performing various physical tasks such as reaching, climbing, and moving on and off industrial equipment.

Performance Measures and Working Relationships

Performance Measures
Productivity, compliance with QSHE requirements, adherence to standard operating procedures, and achievement of quality expectations with no avoidable quality claims.

Internal Contacts
Production team; Warehouse and Distribution team

Pay & Benefits

• Shift: 12-hour swing shift (details below)
• Pay range: $33-$40 per hour, depending on experience
• Earn up to 5 weeks of combined time off per year to start
• Up to 3 weeks of combined time off rollover from the prior year
• Insurance coverage begins on day one
• 7% dollar-for-dollar 401(k) match
• 3% annual profit sharing contribution to 401(k)
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $5,250 annually
• Student loan repayment assistance of up to $10,000

Schedule Details: Production Operators work 12-hour shifts on a rotating schedule that alternates between day shift and night shift. You will work one month on days, then one month on nights, repeating this pattern throughout the year.

Your workdays follow a two-week rotation:

Week 1: Work Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday through Monday.

Week 2: Work Thursday and Friday, then return on Tuesday to start the next rotation.

This two-week pattern is repeated for one month. At the end of the month, you will move to the opposite shift (day or night) and continue following the same workday pattern. Over the course of a year, employees spend approximately six months on day shift and six months on night shift.