Machine operator / Production Worker

Basic Purpose 

The Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining production equipment used in pork processing operations. This role ensures products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards while supporting efficient plant operations. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

1. Operate assigned machinery including but not limited to slicers, grinders, injectors, skinners, saws, stuffers, conveyors, loin pullers, or packaging equipment. 

1. Start up, shut down, and change over equipment according to production schedules. 

1. Monitor machine performance and adjust settings to maintain product quality and yield. 

1. Follow all plant safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and PPE requirements. Immediately report any unsafe conditions, malfunctions, or product deviations. 

1.  Maintain compliance with USDA regulations, HACCP, GMPs, and company food safety programs. 

1.  Verify product specifications such as weight, temperature, grind size, slice thickness, or injection levels. 

1.  Conduct and document quality checks (metal detection, sealing integrity, labeling accuracy). 

1. Ensure proper product flow and minimize waste. 

1. Work collaboratively with production leads and maintenance teams to optimize run times. 

1. Perform basic troubleshooting and minor adjustments to equipment. 

1. Assist Maintenance with repairs or deeper adjustments as needed. 

1. Clean machinery and work areas, including performing pre-operational sanitation tasks. 

1. Complete production logs, downtime reports, quality records, and daily checklists. 

1. Communicate equipment issues clearly to supervisors and maintenance personnel. 

1. Assist on production lines when needed. 

1. Perform all other related duties as assigned. 

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities 

• Must be able to differentiate between products and/or specialty cuts, have basic math skills, communication, and interaction skills. 

• Must be self-motivated to keep pace with the line and be able to follow directions.  

• Must be able to lift, push or pull up to 50 pounds., pinch, work with arms above shoulder level, work on or near moving machinery, and operate equipment.   

• Must be able to walk occasionally and stand continuously.  

• Must be able to work overtime as required