Process Operator

Novita Nutrition - Brookings, SD

Full-time - Entry Level

Brookings, SD

Food Manufacturing

About the position

Responsible for the safe operation of all plant processing equipment including boilers, solvent extraction and pelleting operations. Operators are required to maintain knowledge of the process flow, computerized equipment and be aware of hazards associated with the process. The team member in this position is responsible for understanding and executing standard operating procedures and is expected to ensure proper response during normal and abnormal operating situations. Additionally, operators are responsible for communicating process events to both supervisors and on-coming shift team members. Novita Nutrition operates on a 24-hour continuous schedule. Team member will work rotating 12 hour shifts and must be able to meet call-in requirements as needed. 12 hour shifts; rotating days and nights; 4 on/4 off work schedule. This position is located at the Novita Aurora plant facility located 2 miles east of Brookings, South Dakota.

Responsibilities

• Ability to learn and operate the Distributed Control System (DCS) and other processes associated with the plant operations.
• Understand and follow plant operating procedures for start-up, shut-down, temporary and emergency operations.
• Utilize process data, trend analysis and training to monitor, troubleshoot and respond to process conditions to optimize plant operation.
• Collect and test samples on all designated product streams and take action based on results when required.
• Assure timely and accurate daily documentation of all process information is completed and sample results are documented.
• May load and unload bulk chemical trucks while maintaining a high level of safety and customer service.
• Attend and participate in shift exchange meetings at beginning and end of shift with oncoming/outgoing team members of the previous shift events and current process status.
• Maintain a clean facility and follow the sanitation schedule completing all tasks as assigned.
• Provide knowledge sharing and training with other team members.
• Perform lockout tag out for permitted work including confined space entries and equipment maintenance and cleaning.
• Operate machinery which will include, but is not limited to a front end loader, skid steer, forklift and man lift.
• Complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
• Provide a high level of customer service and maintain a professional presence at all times.
• Participate in all health, safety and environmental programs; maintain self-awareness on safety issues and requirements and report any safety concerns immediately to the EH&S department.
• Responsible for notifying management team of environmental, quality and production concerns, problems and opportunities.
• Perform all tasks associated with Feed Safety/Quality, assigned or as needed, to meet internal and external requirements relating to the production of safe, quality feed products.
• Assist the maintenance department with routine tasks such as completing equipment lubrication PMs, assembling and disassembling equipment.
• Learn and utilize CMMS (Centralized Maintenance Management System) to create work requests.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment inconsistencies and failures.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required, with an Associate's degree or higher education preferred.
• Experience working in a production plant environment required, with previous experience working in a solvent extraction plant preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Skill and experience to establish and maintain inventory tracking systems that are acceptable to management and regulatory agencies.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills.
• Proficient with spreadsheet software and have a basic knowledge of word processing software and email.

Benefits

• Earn $30/hr while in training towards the goal of certification in your role.