Freeze Dry Utility Operator

Purpose of the Position

This position is responsible for supporting and backing up operators in the freeze dry production process in accordance with operational manuals and quality criteria.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions

• Produces the required quantity of batched recipes within established specifications and tolerances and according to production plan.
• Inspects dry ingredient materials and other raw materials, as well as in process materials as necessary ensuring compliance with function, quality, and recipe specifications.
• Maintains logs and records of units produced including a record of errors resulting in rejected/discarded materials.
• Performs pre-operational equipment, preventative maintenance tasks, and process inspections.
• Performs quality and sanitation functions per Quality Program and Master Sanitation Schedule.
• Reports maintenance and quality opportunities with shift supervisors and/or managers.
• Interfaces with plant ERP system to assure inventory control, lot traceability, and tracking.
• Maintains a clean, safe, orderly work area.

Freeze Dry Utility Operator Specific Tasks & Responsibilities

• Supports Freeze Dry Operator, learning their role and providing a variety of tasks both mechanical and manual in nature.
• Back-up Freeze Dry Operator and perform Freeze Dry Operator tasks.
• Responsible for loading and unloading of auto-panner, loading, and unloading of freeze dryers & loading combos of finished product and supporting operators.
• Responsible for tray washing operation, as well as sanitation on the post pasteurization side.
• Operates all equipment associated with freeze dry process which includes, but not limited to, freeze dryer, combo filling and auto panner.
• Responsible for housekeeping of the drying machine(s), and plant area.
• (e.g., sweeping, removing trash, cleaning the machine at the end of the shift, preparing for next shift's production).
• Finalizes any paperwork during shift in an accurate, clear, and concise manner.
• Utilizes ERP System for moving in-process materials and products into and out of inventory.
• Follows all quality guidelines, Master Sanitation Schedules, and maintains a food-safe, sanitary environment.
• Supports other lines, as necessary.
• Disposes of waste materials and other items as required.
• Operates forklift as necessary.
• Supports other process functions as necessary during the day to maximize efficiency of plant.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• 6 months working experience in a manufacturing/production facility preferred.
• Ability to follow proper food safety, quality and workplace safety procedures and requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to follow oral and written instruction.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a team environment.
• Ability to lift to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods of time.
• Forklift certification preferred, or willing to obtain.
• Work well in a team environment.
• Mechanically inclined, drive yourself to continually grow and develop your role.
• Ability to adapt and accommodate change.

About The Company

North Freeze Dry, LLC headquartered in Fargo, ND, is a U.S.-based co-manufacturer that produces freeze-dried companion animal food and treats. The Company’s freeze-drying facility in Little Falls, MN is one of the industry’s largest and most fully integrated freeze-drying co-manufacturing facilities. North Freeze Dry, LLC is a joint venture between Anchor Ingredients Co., LLC, a leading supplier of premium ingredients for the food and pet food industries, and Barrett Petfood Innovations, a rapidly expanding co-manufacturer of premium pet foods.

Disclaimer

This job description is not a complete description of responsibility, but reflects the general qualifications, duties, and/or responsibilities necessary to perform this position. All candidates who receive a written offer of employment will be required to successfully pass a background check. North Freeze Dry reserves the right to revise the job description as circumstances warrant. North Freeze Dry is an at-will employer, which means that either the employee or the company may terminate the relationship at any time, with or without notice, and with or without cause. We are an equal opportunity employer.