Machine Operator - 1st shift - Ovens Dept. - Chicago Racine

About the Role

Under general supervision, sets up and operates assigned production equipment in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Leads employees engaged in manual labor tasks including loading, unloading, lifting, and moving materials. Participates in and leads root-cause analysis meetings, trains new employees, tracks equipment downtime, and develops related SOPs/SSOPs and line-specific KPIs. Operates various types of machinery as needed and directed by leadership.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production line by monitoring for equipment malfunctions or product defects, loading raw materials, unloading work in progress or finished product, and moving materials to and from equipment.
• Set up assigned equipment daily according to the production schedule and product specifications; disassemble at the end of each day for sanitation.
• Monitor equipment operations, troubleshoot and resolve basic malfunctions, and notify supervision and maintenance staff of significant issues.
• Diagnose and repair common mechanical malfunctions on production equipment.
• Perform scheduled preventative maintenance on production equipment; replace broken belts, knives, seals, gaskets, etc., as needed.
• Record, enter, and adjust data as needed; calibrate systems to time, temperature, and equipment positions.
• Calibrate production equipment to ensure efficient and correct operation according to manufacturer specifications; record and interpret temperatures and process parameters.
• Use, read, and record measuring devices and product parameters; monitor equipment daily and take corrective measures to resolve issues.
• Work with maintenance staff to establish and implement preventative maintenance programs and best practice equipment operation methods.
• Notify management or supervisory staff of unusual or out-of-spec operations.
• Maintain a safe and clean work area in compliance with existing policies; perform general housekeeping duties in the production area.
• Take ownership and responsibility for equipment and machinery.
• Comply with organization policies, including safety, good manufacturing practices, food safety, and employment and work rules.
• Coordinate with supervisor for machine coverage during rest periods and meal breaks in accordance with company policy.
• Maintain accurate labor and materials records on work orders.
• Understand and apply appropriate safety procedures through education, training, and use of protective equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 1-3 years of experience in a related field is preferred.
• Excellent proficiency in all Microsoft Office Suite products.
• Ability to perform comparative analysis and make recommendations.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to read and follow designated recipes.
• Basic understanding of units of measure and their applications; proficient math knowledge.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written specifications, blueprints, or schematics in English.

Qualifications

High School Diploma and/or equivalent work experience is required.

Pay

The starting hourly rate for this position is $20.60. This role is eligible for overtime pay for hours worked beyond 40 hours in a week and may also qualify for additional hourly premiums for perfect attendance and/or working evening or night shifts.

Benefits

This union role is eligible for benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement. For complete details, refer to the collective bargaining agreement.

Work Environment

• Work is performed within a manufacturing plant environment with noise, extreme temperatures, and significant movement of powered equipment, people, and conveyors.
• Typical conditions of a food manufacturing facility.
• No domestic travel required.
• May require lifting up to 50 pounds.
• May require frequent or infrequent bending, squatting, pushing, pulling, stretching/reaching, using hands or fingers, talking, hearing, and feeling objects or tools.
• May require standing or walking on concrete flooring for more than 4 hours.