Extruder Operator

We are seeking a detail-oriented and safety-conscious Extruder Operator to manage and optimize the operation of extruding, drying, and coating equipment in the production of dry pet food. This position requires adherence to safety standards, quality assurance practices, and a commitment to maintaining efficiency in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Safely operate and set up extruding, drying, and coating equipment while adhering to all safety protocols, including Lockout/Tagout procedures
• Monitor and control extruders to ensure compliance with food safety temperatures and gelatinization requirements
• Conduct required quality checks and promptly address any deviations from specifications, such as temperature, kibble size, moisture, density, color, texture, or presence of foreign materials
• Track and optimize equipment performance, including downtime, throughput, and food safety metrics
• Interpret the daily production schedule and execute tasks accordingly
• Communicate disruptions to production, quality issues, equipment downtime, or material shortages to management in a timely manner
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of all equipment in the milling and processing areas
• Crosstrain and mentor colleagues to ensure team proficiency
• Contribute to problem-solving initiatives to improve operations and achieve production goals
• Uphold a clean and safe work environment to promote safety and product integrity.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the lead or supervisor

Physical Requirements

• Must be capable of working at elevated heights
• Must be able to lift 50lbs repetitively
• Must be able to lift to 65 lbs. occasionally
• Must be able to adapt to temperature and environmental extremes such as hot to cold, dust dirt and chemicals

Other Requirements

• 12-hour rotating shift:  6:00 am-6:30 pm (days) and 6:00 pm – 6:30am (nights), alternating every 12 weeks.  Four days on, four days off.

Qualifications Required

• Minimum of one year manufacturing experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Good basic math, reading and writing skills
• Basic knowledge of personal computers
• Good problem solving and/or troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work in a self-directed manner with minimal supervision and a positive attitude
• Ability to speak, write and understand English fluently
• Working knowledge of Safety, Quality and Material Management Systems and procedures
• Working Knowledge of food safety, GMP, HACCP, SPC
• Complex problem solving, communication skills Decision Making Authority and Impact
• This role demands attention to detail, adherence to all safety and quality standards, and the ability to manage equipment autonomously.

Total Rewards/Compensation:

• Shift differential of $1.50/hour
• Pay based on experience
• OT potential
• Annual bonus pay out
• Annual merit increases
• Medical, Vision & Dental- Starts day one!
• Up to 6% 401K match
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Short/Long Term disability
• Parental leave

What can you expect from Mars?

• The opportunity to learn, develop and take charge of your own career.
• To be respected and valued.
• The Five Principles at the center of every decision we make.
• The opportunity to work cross functionally, add value and impact a better world for generations to come.
• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized because of such a request.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.