Extruder Operator

Job Title: Extruder Operator
Location: Mishawaka, IN
Department: Production
Job Type: Hourly

Work Schedule: Sunday–Wednesday or Wednesday-Saturday Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM or 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM (12-hour shifts), Wednesday 1/2 shifts

Pay: $23 per hour / Night shift $1.00 shift differential, Weekend shift $1.50 shift Diff.

About United Petfood

United Petfood is a private label producer of high-quality dry & wet pet food, biscuits, and snacks. We are a Belgian family business with 25 high-tech pet kitchens in Europe and the US.

Joining us means being part of an international, passionate, and driven team with one common goal: a healthy planet filled with healthy pets! We value long-lasting partnerships, innovation, and providing an environment where our people can grow and thrive.

Learn more: United Petfood Producers USA, Inc.

Position Summary

United Petfood is hiring an Extruder Operator to join our Mishawaka team.

The Extruder Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and disassembling extrusion equipment while ensuring that production meets quality, food safety, and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and disassemble extrusion equipment in accordance with SOPs and GMPs.
• Start up production equipment according to the production schedule.
• Troubleshoot extruder equipment and make adjustments as needed.
• Monitor product visually and with micrometer; ensure product meets job specifications.
• Perform die changes to ensure correct kibble sizes by brand/SKU.
• Check and document product parameters (moisture, temperature, protein, liquid fat) frequently.
• Maintain cleanliness throughout the work shift and follow sanitation SOPs.
• Review production schedule throughout shift and ensure timely completion of runs.
• Follow all safety, quality, and food safety standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Safety

• Complete safety system documentation and report deviations.
• Participate in mandatory safety trainings and follow all safety policies.
• Immediately report safety issues, near misses, and injuries.

Quality & Food Safety

• Complete required documentation and ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.
• Monitor Critical Control Points (CCPs) and report any deviations.
• Take necessary action to resolve quality or food safety deficiencies.
• Uphold the BRC system through adherence to policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.
• Ability to work in an environment with exposure to odors, noise, heat, cold, dust, and chemicals.
• Ability to lift 50lbs multiple times during a shift.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and measuring devices.
• Good math and communication skills at a high school level.
• Ability to read and follow process operating procedures.
• Familiarity with computer applications.

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience operating an extruder.
• Previous experience setting up and running production machines.
• Experience in a food or beverage manufacturing environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
United Petfood Producers USA Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.