Job Description:

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 proceduresMonitor and control extruders to ensure compliance with food safety temperatures and gelatinization requirementsConduct required quality checks and promptly address any deviations from specifications, such as temperature, kibble size, moisture, density, color, texture, or presence of foreign materialsTrack and optimize equipment performance, including downtime, throughput, and food safety metricsInterpret the daily production schedule and execute tasks accordinglyCommunicate disruptions to production, quality issues, equipment downtime, or material shortages to management in a timely mannerMaintain a comprehensive understanding of all equipment in the milling and processing areasCrosstrain and mentor colleagues to ensure team proficiencyContribute to problem-solving initiatives to improve operations and achieve production goalsUphold 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 heightsMust be able to lift 50lbs repetitivelyMust be able to lift to 65 lbs. occasionallyMust 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 experienceHigh school diploma or equivalentGood basic math, reading and writing skillsBasic knowledge of personal computersGood problem solving and/or troubleshooting skillsAbility to work in a self-directed manner with minimal supervision and a positive attitudeAbility to speak, write and understand English fluentlyWorking knowledge of Safety, Quality and Material Management Systems and proceduresWorking Knowledge of food safety, GMP, HACCP, SPCComplex problem solving, communication skills Decision Making Authority and ImpactThis 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/hourPay based on experienceOT potentialAnnual bonus pay outAnnual merit increasesMedical, Vision & Dental- Starts day one!Up to 6% 401K matchPaid Time OffTuition reimbursementShort/Long Term disabilityParental 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.

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 as a result of such a request.