Production Operator (Day Shift)

The Irca Group is an international leader in high-quality finished and semi-finished ingredients for the bakery, pastry, and ice cream markets. With over 100 years of industry history, the Group is headquartered in Italy (Gallarate) and operates 23 production sites with over 2000 employees across Europe, the United States, and Vietnam. Core product categories include chocolate, compounds, chocolate decorations, sprinkles, creams, pastry mixes, gelato ingredients, nuts, and candied fruit. The recent acquisition of Kerry Sweet adds sweet particulates, chocolate confections, inclusions, variegates, and frozen fruit purees. Through eight key brands (IRCA, Dobla®, in2food, Via Degli Orsini, JoyGelato, RaviFruit, Cesarin, and Anastasi®), the IRCA Group offers a "one-stop shop" for innovative ingredient solutions across Gourmet, Food Manufacturing, and Consumer Product (Retail) channels.

About the role

The Production Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating food manufacturing equipment to produce high-quality products that meet company standards, customer requirements, and all applicable food safety and regulatory guidelines. This role supports daily production goals while maintaining a clean, safe, and compliant work environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate production and packaging equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Set up, monitor, and adjust machinery to ensure consistent product quality and efficiency
• Perform routine quality checks and document results accurately
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP, food safety, and sanitation requirements at all times
• Complete required production, downtime, safety, and sanitation documentation
• Identify and report equipment issues, product defects, or safety concerns to leadership
• Assist with changeovers, minor troubleshooting, and routine equipment cleaning
• Maintain a clean and organized work area before, during, and after production runs
• Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements
• Work collaboratively with team members, maintenance, quality, and supervision to meet production goals
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing efforts

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs throughout the shift
• Ability to climb ladders and work at heights
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts
• Willingness to work assigned shifts, including overtime, weekends, or holidays as needed
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, noise levels, and food allergens

Qualifications

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong attention to detail and quality
• Basic math, reading, and documentation skills
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn production equipment
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
• Safety-focused mindset with strong accountability
• Dependable, punctual, and adaptable to changing production needs
• Food manufacturing experience preferred

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision coverage
• 401(k) matching
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Employee Education Tuition Reimbursement Program