Dry Blend Operator

This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.

Job Description

We are looking for a dedicated and skilled Dry Blend Operator to join our production team. This role involves the manufacturing process of food flavors, including operating various blending and packaging equipment. The ideal candidate will have experience with forklifts and an understanding of dry blending processes. Training will be provided, but prior knowledge of the equipment and processes is a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Dry Blending: Operate equipment used in the dry blending process, including blenders, bag fillers, bag sealers, and batch controllers to produce finished goods.
• Quality Control: Take samples of dry ingredients and finished products as part of in-process quality control to ensure consistency and meet customer specifications.
• Equipment Operation: Safely operate forklifts, and other handling equipment. Disassemble and reassemble machinery for sanitation and clean-up on a daily and weekly basis.
• Housekeeping & GMP: Maintain a clean and orderly work area, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to prevent contamination and damage.
• Hazard Communication & Safety: Ensure knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Collaboration & Flexibility: Assist other departments as needed and communicate the status of the process to the Manufacturing Supervisor to maintain batch integrity.

Skills, Training, and Experience:

• Machinery, Tools, and Equipment: Familiar with dry blending, packaging, and filling equipment. Able to set up, operate, and maintain equipment safely.
• Forklift Operation: Certified to operate electric and hydraulic forklifts.
• Process Knowledge: Understanding of the dry blending process and materials used. Able to follow batch sheets and ensure the correct blending of products.
• Clerical & Documentation: Basic literacy and math skills to handle clerical work, including accurate counting, recording weights, and data entry.
• Computer Skills: Basic computer proficiency and knowledge of IFS system.
• Safety and HazCom Training: Must be trained in handling hazardous chemicals and follow all safety procedures.

Physical Requirements and Conditions:

• Lifting & Dexterity: Must be able to lift 50-80 pounds and handle materials such as bags and supersacks. Dexterity is required for sealing and palletizing bags.
• Work Environment: Regular exposure to disagreeable odors, dust, and temperature extremes in an un-air-conditioned facility. Must wear the provided PPE (steel-toed boots, gloves, safety glasses, etc.).
• Eye Strain: Some eye strain may occur when performing clerical tasks, but the work is performed in a well-lit area.

Additional Information:

• Hours: Monday through Friday, 1:45pm-10:15pm
• Union Facility: This position is part of a unionized work environment.
• Training: 30 Days
• Hazards: Exposure to chemical fumes, acidic, and caustic agents during cleaning processes. Risk of strain from lifting and moving materials.
• Concentration & Accuracy: High attention to detail is required for accurate blending and filling to ensure customer orders are completed correctly.

If you have a passion for production and quality control in a dynamic warehouse environment, please submit your resume and application. We look forward to hearing from you!

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.