Utility Operator

Job Description:

Mars Horsecare- Utility Operator - Dalton, OH

• Pay: Based on experience starting at $25.62/Hour and $2/hour shift premium
• This site manufactures Horse feed

Shift Schedule:

• Shift : 2nd (Afternoon)
• Schedule : Monday- Friday (Saturdays as needed)
• Training and Onboarding Hours :
  • 10am-6pm
  • At times, 6am-2pm (pending training)
  • Up to first 6 months
• Future “non-training” hours:
  • 3pm- 11pm

Description of Role:

The Utility Operator is responsible for learning and supporting production and warehouse departments throughout the facility, including receiving, mixing, processing, packaging, pre-mix, and shipping. This role will rotate through departments and be trained to safely perform all key functions, including equipment setup and operation, changeovers, sanitation, basic troubleshooting, process adjustments, and preventive maintenance.

What are we looking for?

Minimum Requirements:

• High school, GED or equivalent education
• Willing to obtain a Tow Motor License (Mars will train and support)  
• Proficient with computer software’s including MS office and email

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent lifting/carrying (10-50 lbs.) and frequent pushing/pulling (50-200 lbs.).
• Frequent handling/gripping/bending/stooping
• Ability to work at elevated heights off a ladder or platform, climb stairs, leaning over equipment
• Ability to stand and / or work on feet for extended periods
• Ability to work a flexible schedule as needed to support production needs and to conduct multi-task work in a very fast paced work environment
• Able to handle hot and cold temperature environments  
• Ability to read, write and understand English

Preferred Qualifications:

• Technical degree or certification
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or warehouse setting
• Previous mechanical training or background

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Accountable for the safe and efficient operation of multiple machines, processes, and production areas while following all GMP, food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety requirements.
• Train and develop proficiency across all facility departments, including Receiving, Mixing, Extrusion, Pellet Mill, Packaging, Pre-Mix, and Shipping.
• Perform equipment setup, startups, changeovers, operation, adjustments, and shutdowns within assigned departments.
• Complete daily and weekly sanitation tasks, preventive maintenance (PMs), inspections, and basic troubleshooting as required.
• Monitor equipment and production performance, immediately communicating downtime, quality concerns, maintenance needs, or safety issues
• Work closely with supervisors and operators to support production schedules, minimize downtime and waste, complete quality checks, and ensure smooth product changeovers.
• Maintain accurate documentation and provide clear verbal and written shift handoffs.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability by rotating between departments and supporting operational needs as required.
• Obtain and maintain Tow Motor/Forklift certification.
• Support continuous improvement efforts and maintain clean, organized work

Total Rewards

• Starting Pay: Based on experience starting at $25.62/hour+
• Annual Bonus and Merit Increases
• Benefits Starting Day One:
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental 
  • Up to 6% 401(k) match 
  • Vacation time 
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • Short/Long-Term Disability 
  • 18 weeks parental leave 
• Relocation will not be offered