Extrusion Process Technician- 1st Shift

Job Description:

Champion Petfoods is expanding! We are excited to announce that we are looking for an Extruder Operator to join our rapidly growing company. This is a first shift position. With thirty years of growth in the global pet food sector, our ORIJEN and ACANA brands define our vision of being The Global Leader in Advancing Premium Food for Pets. If you are passionate about personal and professional growth and see yourself as a key player contributing to our continued success by working in our award-winning company – we would love to hear from you.

Summary

The position of Extruder Operator has primary responsibility for the set-up and operation of the extrusion process for the purpose of cooking and shaping ingredients into kibble, drying, fat coating and cooling, in the Auburn, KY manufacturing facility.  This position is required to demonstrate the mechanical and chemical knowledge and the technical skills necessary to operate the equipment safely and efficiently. This position plays a critical role in continuous improvement through identifying both equipment and procedural changes.

Responsibilities

• Consult with the Supervisor to determine scheduled production runs and associated extrusion requirements.
• Operate the extrusion equipment in a safe and efficient manner, continually monitoring targets regarding protein, fat, temperature, moisture, read-outs, dryer, etc. and making necessary adjustments to ensure finished product will meet product and quality specifications.
• Maintain required Product Log Sheets in an accurate and timely manner, according to established practices/SOPs.
• Participate in annual physical inventory as determined by the Company.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with established corporate policies, practices and health and safety regulations.
• Develop awareness and understanding of the Company’s policies, practices and procedures related to health and safety, food safety and the environment and commit to personal compliance with same.
• Support and represent the Company in community sponsored events.
• Perform additional assignments as per the Supervisor or Production Manager’s direction.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• 2-3 years’ experience operating food processing machinery.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and adept with tools and equipment, including ability to safely operate a forklift
• Strong sense of logic and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in all areas of work
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, with ability to accurately complete required paperwork
• Demonstrated ability to work independently or effectively as part of a team across organization boundaries and with diverse teams within a manufacturing environment.

Working Conditions

• 24/7 availability and overtime may be required
• Willing to work any shift as necessary
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Willingness to adhere to strict quality and safety standards.
• Travel to off-site locations may be required
• Proper use of safety equipment will be required, e.g. steel-toed safety boots, safety glasses/goggles, etc.
• Work activities will include both indoor and outdoor environments
• Regularly required to work at heights; fall arrest training to be provided by the Company
• Manufacturing plant working conditions, with exposure to dust, noise, odors and/or fluctuating temperatures

Come as you are.

We value diversity in all forms and know the power it can bring. Workplace equality allows for creative ideas to bloom, diverse points of views to be heard, and increases overall happiness. That sounds pretty good to us.

Champion is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between the range listed above, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, if eligible, including variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits.  Eligibility for these additional elements depend on the position offered and the employee’s work schedule (i.e., part-time schedule, store associate).  Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.