Dry Process Operator
AFB International · Greater St. Louis
- On site
- Full-time
- $45,000 / year
- Greater St. Louis
Job highlights
- Operate dry blending and packaging equipment.
- Monitor and control production parameters.
- Perform quality control sampling and checks.
- Utilize material handling and forklift equipment.
- Maintain GMP standards and safety.
About the role
Dry Process Operator
AFB International is seeking a skilled Dry Process Operator to join our team. We specialize in creating great-tasting pet food solutions that enhance the lives of pets and their owners. Our palatants are designed to improve the flavor of pet foods, treats, and supplements, ensuring pets receive essential nutrients. Join a dedicated team of professionals contributing to our global success in enriching pets' lives.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate equipment for dry blending and production of finished goods.
- Adjust raw material feed systems and monitor dry blend packaging parameters.
- Take samples for in-process quality control of dry ingredients and finished products.
- Utilize scales, supersacks, and lifting equipment as part of the production process.
- Operate forklifts (certification required) and assist other areas as needed.
- Maintain a clean and orderly work area following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Communicate work process status to ensure batch integrity.
- Work with minimal direct supervision and adhere to Hazard Communication standards.
- Be knowledgeable of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Perform other duties as assigned by Team Leader/Manufacturing Supervisor.
Skill, Training, and Experience Requirements
- Familiarity with dry blending, packaging, and filling equipment; ability to set up and operate.
- Knowledge to disassemble and reassemble systems for sanitation (daily/weekly).
- Proficiency in safely operating electric and hydraulic forklifts.
- Basic literacy, legible writing, and document reading skills.
- Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
- Basic computer skills.
- Familiarity with all materials used in Dry Blending.
- Understanding of process steps per blend/batch sheet.
- Ability to locate and identify finished products, raw materials, and supplies.
- Training in proper handling of hazardous chemicals (HazCom and MSDS).
- Ability to perform simple and repetitive motions (handling bags, supersacks, operating forklift).
- Dexterity required for sealing and palletizing bags, securing loads.
- Normal coordination for controlling operations.
Responsibility Highlights
- High cost of equipment and medium cost of materials in batch process.
- High value of finished products requires careful handling.
- Ensures accurate product mixing according to formula and Quality Control specifications.
- Prevents issues related to inaccurate filling of customer orders or raw material delivery.
- Minimizes customer complaints due to shipping errors.
- Requires above-average concentration, alertness to product specifications, and focus on safety hazards.
- Fully responsible for accuracy in counting, weights, marking, and clerical work.
Key Skills/Competency
- Dry Blending
- Forklift Operation
- Quality Control
- Manufacturing Process
- GMP
- Material Handling
- Equipment Operation
- Safety Awareness
- Production Monitoring
- Teamwork
Skills & topics
- Dry Process Operator
- Manufacturing
- Production
- Food Production
- Pet Food
- Operator
- Blending
- Forklift
- Quality Control
- GMP
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight experience with dry blending, forklift operation, and GMP.
- Showcase technical skills: Emphasize familiarity with manufacturing equipment and safety protocols.
- Quantify achievements: Use numbers to demonstrate accuracy and efficiency in previous roles.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your understanding of quality control and material handling.
- Express passion for pets: Connect your interest to AFB International's mission for pet food quality.
Technical preparation
Practice forklift operation safety procedures.,Review dry blending and packaging equipment manuals.,Study GMP and material handling best practices.,Familiarize with HazCom and MSDS protocols.
Behavioral questions
Describe a time you ensured product quality.,How do you handle repetitive tasks accurately?,Discuss your experience working with minimal supervision.,How do you prioritize safety in a production environment?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the primary responsibilities of a Dry Process Operator at AFB International?
- The Dry Process Operator is responsible for operating dry blending and packaging equipment, monitoring production parameters, performing quality control sampling, utilizing material handling equipment including forklifts, and maintaining Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and a safe work environment. They ensure batch integrity and accurate recording of data.
- What specific equipment will a Dry Process Operator use at AFB International?
- A Dry Process Operator will use equipment such as forklifts, vacuum lifts, bag/Supersack fillers, bag sealers, blenders, batch controllers, and scales. They will also handle supersacks and other lifting and handling equipment.
- What qualifications are necessary for the Dry Process Operator role at AFB International?
- Essential qualifications include familiarity with dry blending and packaging equipment, forklift certification, basic literacy, math, and computer skills. Knowledge of materials used in dry blending, understanding of process steps, and training in hazardous chemical handling (HazCom, MSDS) are also required.
- Does AFB International require specific certifications for the Dry Process Operator position?
- Yes, certification to use forklifts is required for the Dry Process Operator role at AFB International. Training in Hazard Communication (HazCom) and understanding of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are also crucial.
- How does AFB International ensure product quality and safety for its pet food solutions?
- AFB International ensures quality and safety through strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), in-process quality control sampling, monitoring of batch parameters, proper material handling, and employee training on safety protocols and hazardous materials. The company emphasizes minimizing product contamination and ensuring batch integrity.
- What is the work environment like for a Dry Process Operator at AFB International?
- The role involves operating machinery, handling materials, and requires above-average concentration and alertness due to product specifications and potential safety hazards. Maintaining a clean and orderly work area is a key part of the role, following GMP guidelines.