Multi-Line Production Operator- 1st Shift

Job Description

About the CompanyOur facility located in Whitehall, OH is dedicated to the retail product portfolio with a specialization in rolled dough (pizza, pie, pastry), cookie dough, and new brand expansions. Most importantly, we are GROWING. As we grow, our team members grow with us. If you are looking to do the best work of your career, be a part of an extraordinary company, and have a passion for what we do, we want to hear from you!

Our Cerelia Whitehall plant may be new, but the history of Cerelia goes back to 1974. As the years have passed, the company has grown from a France-based production company to an international leader.

Position ProfileThe Multi-Line Production Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, sanitizing and supporting multiple pieces of production and packaging equipment across various manufacturing lines. This role requires strong technical aptitude, flexibility, and the ability to move between production areas to support operational needs and maintain efficient production flow.

This position plays a key role in ensuring safe operations, product quality, equipment performance, and production efficiency. The Multi-Line Production Operator supports multiple stages of the production process, including mixing, processing, packaging, and utility support functions, while ensuring adherence to company safety, quality, and operational standards.

In addition to operating equipment, this role supports line changeovers, sanitation activities, troubleshooting equipment issues, and maintaining production documentation. The operator also assists with training operators, supporting new product introductions, participating in equipment commissioning, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives such as 5S and workflow optimization.

The Multi-Line Production Operator must demonstrate the ability to work independently, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and adapt quickly to changing production priorities while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and operational excellence.

This position reports directly to the Production Supervisor and is based at Cérélia’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Columbus (Whitehall), Ohio.

Primary Responsibilities

Operate and monitor multiple production and packaging machines across different production lines including mixers, extruders, Rademaker equipment, Ilapak/Variovac packaging systems, and support utility functions.

Demonstrate the ability to run, pack, clean, support and trouble issues on production lines while ensuring safe and efficient operation.

Perform changeovers, sanitation tasks, and end-of-run cleaning, including equipment disassembly and reassembly.

Maintain flexibility to move between production areas as needed to support operational demands and production schedules.

Lead and support line start-ups, product transitions, and changeovers between product types including SNAP and Gluten-Free production runs.

Train and support line operators on equipment operation, production procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Verify that team members can accurately perform assigned production tasks.

Conduct daily line start-up inspections and document observations through digital checklists or mobile applications.

Adjust processing equipment to ensure product consistency and compliance with quality specifications.

Monitor and record lot numbers, dough temperatures, fat percentages, and production parameters.

Perform on-line quality checks and bake-offs to ensure product meets quality standards.

Lead or participate in daily shift or huddle meetings, communicating production goals, safety topics, and operational updates.

Diagnose equipment issues and collaborate with maintenance operators to resolve mechanical or operational problems.

Calibrate processing and packaging systems to maintain production standards.

Support continuous improvement initiatives, including process optimization and downtime reduction.

Document equipment downtime and production issues within CMMS or production tracking systems.

Maintain clean and organized work areas aligned with 5S and operational flow principles.

Assist with new line commissioning, equipment testing, and development of work instructions for new processes.

Support cross-functional production projects and new product launches.Multi-Line / Multi-Skill

This role requires operators to demonstrate:

Ability to operate multiple pieces of equipment across multiple production lines

Flexibility to work wherever production support is needed

Strong understanding of entire line flow from mixing through packaging

Capability to support multiple departments including processing, packaging, and utility operations

Commitment to maintaining production efficiency across all lines

Key equipment and roles may include:

Mixer Operations

Extruder / Rademaker Equipment

Ilapak / Variovac Packaging Systems

Utility Support (loading, unloading, BFR, packing)Quality Assurance

Follow all company programs and procedures to ensure compliance with SQF, regulatory, customer, and company standards.

Perform quality checks and ensure product meets specifications and food safety requirements.

Report quality concerns or improvement opportunities to the Production Supervisor.

Perform daily GMP inspections to ensure team compliance with food safety standards.Health & Safety

Follow all company safety policies and procedures to maintain a safe workplace.

Prioritize safety while performing all job responsibilities.

Follow Lockout/Tagout procedures when required.

Report unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.

Maintain a safe, clean, and sanitary work environment.

Understand proper handling and use of sanitation chemicals.Training & Development

Operators in this role will receive training including:

Hands-on equipment operation training

OEM equipment training

Cross-training across multiple production lines

Sanitation and food safety training

5S and production flow principles

Participation in line commissioning and development of work instructions

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent

2-5 years of experience operating multiple types of production or packaging equipment in a manufacturing environment required

Ability and willingness to perform full sanitation of production equipment, including equipment breakdown, cleaning, and reassembly in compliance with GMP, food safety, and sanitation standards.

Demonstrated ability to operate production machinery and troubleshoot issues

Ability and willingness to travel internationally for equipment training or support

Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid passport.

Willingness and flexibility to work across multiple production lines or departments in a high-volume manufacturing setting.

Demonstrated history of reliable attendance and punctuality required

Must demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and team-oriented mindset

Basic computer skills including mobile apps and production systems

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions in English

Strong teamwork and communication skills

Ability to adapt to changing production priorities in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting or leading production teams preferred

Familiarity with equipment such as mixers, extruders, Rademaker systems, or Ilapak/Variovac packaging equipment.

Knowledge of GMP, SQF, and food safety standards within food manufacturing.

Experience with SAP, CMMS, or other production tracking systems for documenting downtime and production data.

Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, 5S, continuous improvement practices, or equipment commissioning/start-up activities.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds regularly, including ingredient containers, equipment parts, and packaging materials.

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time during the production shift.

Ability to bend, kneel, squat, twist, and reach frequently while operating equipment, performing sanitation, and supporting production tasks.

Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and elevated platforms and safely work at heights when accessing equipment or production areas.

Ability to perform equipment disassembly and reassembly during sanitation and changeover procedures.

Ability to push or maneuver carts, racks, or product pallets throughout the production area.

Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, including refrigerated production areas or near heated processing equipment.

Ability to work around moving mechanical parts and automated equipment while following all safety procedures.

Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, hairnets, hearing protection, safety shoes, and other required safety gear.

Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements associated with equipment operation, packaging tasks, and sanitation activities.

Core Competencies for Success

Strategic: Understands how individual responsibilities contribute to overall production performance, safety, and quality objectives. Anticipates production needs and proactively supports line operations to maintain efficiency across multiple machines and production lines. Demonstrates awareness of the broader production process and supports operational readiness during product transitions, line changeovers, and capacity demands.

Initiative: Proactively identify opportunities to improve line performance, equipment operation, workflow, and sanitation practices. Takes ownership of production challenges and works to resolve issues efficiently while maintaining safety and quality standards. Demonstrates a willingness to question existing processes and contribute ideas that improve operational effectiveness.

Information Seeking: Actively gathers information to troubleshoot production issues and ensure accurate equipment operation. Seeks guidance, input, and expertise from supervisors, maintenance, quality teams, and peers when necessary to resolve discrepancies or improve production outcomes. Uses data, production records, and operational observations to support informed decisions.

Self-confidence: Approaches new assignments, equipment, and responsibilities with confidence and a positive attitude. Demonstrates a willingness to learn new equipment, processes, and production areas while remaining adaptable in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Maintains a constructive outlook when addressing operational challenges and views obstacles as opportunities to improve skills and performance.

Results Orientated & Can-Do Attitude: Maintains a strong focus on meeting production targets, quality expectations, and operational deadlines. Demonstrate high standards for work quality and accountability while effectively managing time and priorities across multiple tasks and production areas. Shows flexibility and determination to support operational needs and ensure production lines run efficiently.

Team Leadership: Works collaboratively with team members to support safe, efficient, and productive operations. Promote teamwork by sharing knowledge, assisting coworkers, and supporting training of new operators when needed. Helps maintain open communication across the production team by sharing relevant information, encouraging engagement, and contributing to a positive work environment focused on achieving team and site objectives.

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