Extruder Operator
(Non-Exempt)
Company Overview:Ethos Pet Brands is the parent company of Natural Balance® and Canidae® pet brands. By joining forces under Ethos Pet Brands, these premium pet food brands strengthen their commitment to delivering the highest quality nutrition. We believe in the power of strong brands to connect with pet parents and create meaningful experiences.
The Extruder Operator will work out of our Brownwood Texas manufacturing facility, and report to the Shift Manager. The key responsibilities and duties of this position include, but are not limited to:
- Oversee extrusion activities based on production schedule to include the extruder, the dryer, the coating room, and the meat room
- Adhere to standard operating procedure for manufacturing of pet food and all controls
- Document, review and report on quality standards evaluation per standard protocol
- Test production to make sure quality standards are being upheld
- Report issues with equipment and escalate as necessary
- Monitors meat inclusion as necessary
- Process development and improvement for the site relating to quality control, quality assurance, sanitation, and food safety
- Maintain a deep understanding of the manufacturing process so that all products are produced similarly and within standards
- Monitor hourly KPIs and report out based on production output and downtime
- Clean all responsible areas as indicated by 5S or supervision direction
- Other duties as assigned
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- GED, High School diploma or equivalent
- OSHA forklift certification
- Experience working as a lead operator
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Able to work without supervision
- Able to multitask in a fast environment
- Able to be flexible and work overtime
- Able to be detail oriented
- Have an understanding of safety and quality
- Have an understanding of mechanical equipment
- Must be willing to submit a background check and pre-employment drug screening
- Must be eligible to work in the US
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong technical and mechanical repair skills
- Proven experience as a machine operator
- Strong knowledge of heavy-duty and high-speed machinery
- Strong ability to use measurement tools
- Good understanding of production procedures and best practices
- Excellent knowledge of safety methods and hazard regulations
- Ability to read manuals, blueprints, and handbooks
- Good physical stamina and keen attention to detail
- Minimum 2 to 3 years of manufacturing pet food experience in pet food or similar industry
- Ability to assess equipment and maintenance / trouble shoot mechanical failures
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Ability to push, pull, carry, or lift up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 8 hours
- Ascend/descend a ladder or stairs daily
- Ability to operate a computer and other office technology
- Ability to observe details at close range
- Must be able to work in area with exposure to loud noises
- Ability to work safely in areas with hazardous equipment and materials
- Must be able to relay accurate information via multiple communication vehicles including verbal and written mechanisms
- Must be able to work in extreme hot and cold temperatures
- Occasionally position self to access low spaces
BENEFITS
- 401K matching
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- HSA & FSA
- Pet Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistant Program
- Referral Program
- And more!
Ethos is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.