Production Operator, 1st Shift

About the Role

Oterra is seeking a dependable and safety-conscious Production Operator to support manufacturing operations by producing, processing, and packaging high-quality color products. The role involves operating and maintaining production equipment, preparing materials, following mixing and blending recipes, and ensuring finished products meet established quality specifications.

Responsibilities

• Set up, assemble, disassemble, operate, adjust, and clean production equipment used for blending, filling, processing, and packaging color products.
• Locate, prepare, transfer, and load raw materials and other ingredients for production.
• Move work-in-process (WIP) and finished products to filling stations, additional processing areas, storage, or shipping.
• Prepare packaging materials, including drums, pails, and boxes, and print and apply product labels.
• Collect product samples and deliver them to the Quality Control (QC) laboratory for testing.
• Work with QC technicians and supervisors to make necessary process adjustments to ensure products meet specifications.
• Complete required production paperwork and enter accurate information into production, laboratory, and inventory records.
• Follow production recipes, work instructions, and applicable SAP processes.
• Maintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), quality standards, sanitation requirements, and all company safety procedures.
• Communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors regarding production progress, product quality, and process concerns.

Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Basic math skills, including the ability to calculate and convert weights and volumes using the metric system.
• Ability to follow written instructions, production recipes, and established procedures.
• Ability to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), safety guidelines, and sanitation requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to work effectively with team members, supervisors, and Quality Control personnel.
• Ability to safely handle materials and operate production equipment after appropriate training.
• Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Previous manufacturing, production, or packaging experience.
• Experience with mixing, blending, filling, or processing products.
• Forklift operating experience.
• Familiarity with basic hand tools and equipment assembly.
• Experience using SAP or other manufacturing, inventory, or production tracking systems.
• Experience maintaining production records and following quality control procedures.

Working Conditions

This position operates in a manufacturing environment with frequent exposure to wet, humid, dusty, or noisy conditions; moving machinery; airborne particles or fumes; and caustic chemicals. Employees must wear a company-issued uniform and required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. Some work may take place in small rooms requiring compliance with airlock procedures to prevent cross-contamination between departments.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the workday.
• Lift and move materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Use hands and fingers to handle materials, tools, equipment, and machine controls.
• Roll bags, scoop materials, and perform tasks involving kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Use feet to operate machinery when required.
• Perform work requiring visual acuity, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective on your first day of employment.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match: Build your financial future with company-supported retirement savings.
• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Enjoy time away to recharge with paid time off (PTO) and 11 paid holidays.
• Paid Parental Leave: Maternity and paternity leave to support you and your growing family.
• Employee Engagement and Community: Participate in team celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and employee engagement activities that help you connect with colleagues across the company.

Interested in learning more about Oterra and what we do? Visit www.oterra.com to explore our company and discover how you can be part of our team!