Operations and Machinery Operator

Position Summary

The Operations and Machinery Operator is responsible for safely operating production, material-handling, and processing equipment throughout the facility. This position supports daily operations by receiving and routing products, monitoring production processes, performing routine equipment inspections, assisting with preventive maintenance, and maintaining accurate operational records.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate forklifts, front-end loaders, mixers, grinders, conveyors, and other facility equipment.
• Load and unload trucks and railcars and route incoming materials to the appropriate storage or production areas.
• Monitor machinery and production processes to ensure equipment is operating safely and efficiently.
• Start, stop, adjust, and inspect equipment according to established operating procedures.
• Identify equipment problems and perform basic troubleshooting.
• Assist with preventive maintenance, equipment servicing, and unscheduled repairs.
• Complete pre-operation inspections and report equipment damage, safety concerns, or maintenance needs.
• Monitor product flow and make necessary equipment adjustments to maintain production and quality standards.
• Assist with inventory control, product tracking, and material movement.
• Maintain accurate and detailed production, inventory, inspection, and maintenance records.
• Keep machinery, work areas, and the facility clean and organized.
• Follow all safety procedures, operating guidelines, and personal protective equipment requirements.
• Provide operational support and backup coverage for other positions as needed.
• Work scheduled overtime or respond to call-ins when necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• High school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience operating forklifts, loaders, production machinery, or agricultural equipment is preferred.
• Ability to safely operate machinery and material-handling equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform basic equipment troubleshooting.
• Ability to follow operating instructions, safety procedures, and production schedules.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of an operations team.
• Ability to maintain clear, legible, and accurate operational records.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, bending, climbing, and standing for extended periods.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and call-in assignments as needed.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed both inside and outside the facility.
• Regular exposure to feed products, dust, noise, changing temperatures, and weather conditions.
• Work is performed on and around mobile equipment, moving machinery, conveyors, and production systems.
• Personal protective equipment must be worn as required.
• Position may require lifting heavy materials, climbing ladders or stairs, and working from elevated areas.

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties an employee may be required to perform. The employer may assign additional responsibilities as operational needs require and reserves the right to revise this job description at any time.