Extruder Operator

Job Description

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.

Full-time