1st shift Mill Operator

Kaytee is seeking a Class 5 Mill Operator Level I on 1st shift to be part of the Central Specialty Pet Division based out of Chilton, WI. In this role, you will coordinate the receipt of rail cars and trucks, ensuring a high-quality product is cleaned and processed according to specifications.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate strong communication skills, including clear verbal and written communication, active listening, effective relationship-building, and appropriate responses to various communication situations.
• Understand and operate Repete software and manage the setup and operation of six cleaning mills.
• Set up and clean machinery according to production requirements, including installing appropriate screens and related mill components.
• Start machines, monitor operations for malfunctions, and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Accurately record all inventory transactions and receive delivery quantities in SAP.
• Enter receiving routes for grains and pellets in the Repete system and manually activate required equipment.
• Maintain open communication with Milling Department Operators and the Production Scheduler to ensure timely grain delivery.
• Perform required process quality-control checks, including moisture, bushel weight, dockage, and other QC-determined tests; sample incoming loads as required.
• Report any issues or concerns related to grain cleaning operations or equipment functionality.
• Perform preventative maintenance and maintain a clean, safe work environment.
• Understand departmental goals and objectives and work in alignment with them.
• Comply with Confined Space policy and schedule silo cleanouts in accordance with quality standards.
• Report safety concerns or hazards to the supervisor promptly.
• Follow all LOTO, Fall Protection, GMP, food safety, and company safety policies.
• Ensure adherence to food safety requirements and report any food safety issues to authorized personnel.
• Perform additional tasks and assist with other duties in Plant 3 as assigned by management.
• Communicate with coworkers in a manner that supports a positive, team-oriented work environment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Mechanically inclined with strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Able to work independently in a safe, efficient, and accurate manner.
• Capable of consistently lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and comfortable with ladders and heights.
• Basic computer skills, including Repete Controls and SAP.
• Prior machine operator experience required.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage tasks effectively.
• Ability to perform basic math with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, and calculate rates, ratios, and percentages.
• Demonstrated ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Able to obtain Kaytee forklift certification.
• Able to operate a loader for rail cars unloading and a tractor for wagon transport between plants.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a manufacturing environment; temperatures can vary due to outside temperatures. Hours of work will generally be during regular business hours (on each respective shift) and average at least 40 hours a week. There may be some variation in work hours due to overtime, special projects, deadlines, and other concerns.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Free Life and Short-Term Disability Insurance.
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401k with 3% company match and annual profit-sharing bonus.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time.
• Paid Parental Leave Program.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more.
• Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications).
• Referral Program with cash bonus.
• Onsite Wellness Center.
• Onsite Employee 24-hour gym.