BLAST UNIT MONITOR

At Butterball, we exist to help people pass love on. As the most recognized name in turkey, the brand represents more than 60 years of cherished memories, providing quality, great-tasting products that make meals something to celebrate every day. We proudly believe that life at Butterball means having a team who supports you, having the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, and making an impact on the health of others daily.

About the role

The Oven/Blast Operator is a Critical Control Point (CCP)–trained team member responsible for the safe, accurate, and compliant operation of our oven and/or blast systems. This role monitors, controls, and documents all phases of the oven and blast processes to ensure product quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance. The Operator is accountable for maintaining required temperatures, times, and documentation; identifying and responding to deviations; and following established procedures, sanitation standards, and safety protocols. The Oven/Blast Operator plays a critical role in protecting product integrity and supporting continuous, efficient production operations.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and document all phases of oven and blast operations in accordance with HACCP, CCP, and Process Control requirements.
• Consistently and accurately complete HACCP and production records, ensuring compliance with food safety and regulatory standards.
• Load ovens and blast units correctly according to established Process Control procedures, including moving racks and materials to and from equipment.
• Monitor equipment operation and product conditions, promptly identifying and reporting equipment malfunctions, process deviations, or safety concerns to appropriate personnel.
• Perform routine cleaning and sanitation of ovens, blast units, and surrounding work areas as required.
• Adhere to all USDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and company policies, including maintaining a clean, organized, and food-safe work environment.
• Follow all safety procedures and instructions, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age and legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must pass a background check, drug screen, and pre-employment physical.

Skills

• Knowledge of HACCP principles and Critical Control Point (CCP) monitoring, documentation, and compliance requirements.
• Understanding of USDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and food safety standards related to thermal processing and blast chilling.
• Ability to accurately observe processes and recognize abnormal operating conditions, safety hazards, or equipment issues.
• Proficient in basic computer skills, including data entry and performing mathematical and time-based calculations.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision, demonstrating sound judgment, initiative, and problem-solving skills; able to effectively plan, organize, and prioritize work.
• Willingness and ability to learn new tasks, cross-train in other operational areas, and support operational needs.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, display adequate energy and stress tolerance.
• Ability to communicate effectively and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to maintain and promote a safe work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• High School Diploma or related.
• Previous experience working in a food manufacturing environment.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a constant state of alertness in a safe manner.
• Standing (8 hours a day or more).
• Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling (up to and including 50 lbs or more).
• Reaching overhead (up to and including 25 lbs).
• Gripping, grasping, and twisting using wrists, hands, and fingers.
• Bending and stooping for short periods of time.
• Working below knee levels for short periods of time.
• Working above shoulder level for short periods of time.
• Working at heights for short periods of time.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a food processing plant with a high noise level, storage coolers/facilities.
• Position includes working in areas with temperatures below freezing as well as working at heights.
• Position requires working around processing plant equipment.
• Must be physically capable of working extended hours if needed and in a wet environment, standing for long periods of time, and operating processing equipment.
• This position requires the individual to wear and work in personal protective equipment while in the manufacturing environment.
• The noise level of the office environment is usually moderate; the noise level in the manufacturing environment may exceed 85 DBA and require hearing protection.
• This position does not require travel.