Production Technician (Extruder) - 1st Shift

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up and operate food extrusion machines to produce pellets according to recipe and specifications
• Load and verify raw ingredients (flour, starches, additives, water) based on batch sheets
• Control and monitor key parameters (Temperature zones, Moisture levels, Screw speed, and pressure)
• Start, adjust, and stop machines during production runs
• Ensure uniform pellet size, shape, texture, and density
• Always follow HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) procedures
• Support and enforce HACCP, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and FDA/food regulatory compliance
• Maintain strict hygiene and sanitation standards
• Prevent cross-contamination between batches
• Conduct in-process quality checks (moisture, appearance, density, etc.)
• Accurately label and segregate batches
• Meet daily production targets while minimizing waste
• Record batch data (ingredients, lot numbers, machine settings, output)
• Adjust process variables to maintain consistent product quality
• Cleanse and sanitize equipment (CIP/COP where applicable)
• Disassemble and clean dies, screws, and feed systems as required
• Identify and report abnormalities (noise, vibration, inconsistent output)
• Assist technicians during maintenance
• Install, configure, and calibrate food extrusion equipment
• Troubleshoot process-related issues
• Ensure all equipment meets food-grade and sanitation standards
• Conduct changeovers
• Ensure proper documentation for audits and traceability
• Train operators on proper machine operation, hygiene, and safety
• Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives
• Assist with monthly inventories as needed

Required Skills

• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to identify and use basic hand tools, measurement devices, and scale devices
• Organizational and teamwork skills
• Ability to add, subtract, and multiply
• Ability to repetitively lift to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand for 8-hour shifts
• High attention to detail
• Self-motivated
• Comfortable working at elevated heights
• Knowledgeable on the Lock-Out-Tag-Out process