Machine Operator, Food Plant

Responsibilities:

• Assist with the daily operations of the production team by operating high-volume food production equipment and working with Production Cooks, Expeditors, and Assemblers to ensure all production targets are met and safety protocols are followed.
• Assist production leadership in ensuring that a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) manufacturing facility production team operates safely and in compliance with regulatory and corporate safety and environmental program standards and goals.
• Operate various types of industrial food processing equipment, including but not limited to: mixers, grinders, slicers, and packaging machines, to ensure efficient production.
• Oversee ingredient preparation for hot and cold production according to production schedules, recipes, and build guides and ensure precise execution according to specifications.
• Monitor food quality, batch sizes, ingredient specifications, and presentation standards to maintain quality and consistency.
• Follow and comply with established prepping and cooking protocols and procedures, including but not limited to: Weights and Measures, health and sanitation, and safe work practices.
• Enforce hygiene and sanitation standards to comply with food safety regulations.
• Complete all required daily documentation for the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), metal detection, X-ray, and all other logs as required for the facility.
• Maintain accurate labeling of products and ensure correct batch and pack dates are applied.
• Open and close kitchen facility according to established procedures and ensure opening, mid, and closing duties are performed, as assigned.
• Assist in the training of new Team Members, utilizing learning checklists and training materials.
• Train and mentor Team Members on proper food handling, safety procedures, and equipment usage.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of, and ensure compliance with, relevant regulatory rules and standards, including Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), USDA, State Department of Agriculture, HACCP, FSMA, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Department of Labor, Health and Sanitation regulations, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Weights and Measures.
• Foster a positive work environment of outstanding teamwork and mutual respect.

Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of experience in a food manufacturing facility environment.
• In-depth knowledge of various food production equipment and machines found in a high-volume, USDA-certified food facility.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining industrial cooking equipment, such as ovens, grills, kettles, and mixers.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing operations, supply chain management, environmental health and safety, and OSHA.
• Basic computer skills; proficiency in select Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); and ability to learn custom applications.
• Basic understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) processes within a food manufacturing environment preferred.
• Ability to work well with others, self-motivated, and capable of working independently with little supervision.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule based on the needs of the facility, including nights, weekends and holidays as required.
• Ability to build strong partnerships with key stakeholders, including Team Members, customers, suppliers, and regulators.
• A genuine passion for food and a deep commitment to our purpose to nourish people and the planet.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions:

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Must adhere to company dress code and standards of production kitchen dress and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with reasonable accommodation.
• Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling.
• Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching.
• Exposure to FDA-approved cleaning chemicals.
• Exposure to temperatures: <32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing), 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerators), >90 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Ability to work in wet and dry conditions.
• May require the use of ladders.

At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.