We have an immediate opening for a Regulatory Affairs Specialist to join our team. Reporting to the Director of Quality Assurance, the Regulatory Affairs Specialist is responsible for leading all aspects of regulatory compliance, partnering with functional departments internally, managing relationships with external regulators, our legal advisors, consultants and network of customers to deliver on our priorities and address issues as they arise. Detailed responsibilities include:

• Oversee domestic and international regulatory submissions to obtain export permits.
• Execute product specific global regulatory requirements to ensure the uninterrupted movement of products to international markets.
• Maintain technical documents in compliance with the USDA, FDA, AAFCO and State requirements.
• Supervise staff member in their preparation of license and tonnage submission deliverables to various state and federal regulatory agencies.
• Manage and improve the label approval process.
• Manage and improve the product change process.
• Work with regulatory contacts to support new product introductions and product changes.
• Develop and maintain updated export requirements for the international market.
• Develop and maintain a strong working relationship with domestic and international regulatory agencies.
• Champion all changes in regulations that impact the business and present findings and recommendations to the leadership team.

We are currently seeking a Database Programmer Analyst to support and help enhance our front and back-office enterprise business applications services. In this position, you will report to the Manager of Enterprise Application Services and work in the following three areas:

1) System administration (ERP, CRM, EDI)

2) Database and ETL Development (Oracle/SQL Server/SSIS/GIS)

3) Reporting & business analytics development (Crystal Reports, SSRS, BO Business Objects)

The position requires at 5-7 years of experience.  The ideal candidate should have a strong background working with databases in either Oracle or SQL Server environments and must be adept at developing stored procedures (PL-SQL and/or T-SQL), views, triggers, indexes and queries.  In addition, this candidate must be willing to assist with all enterprise level application administration and support.   Candidates will also participate in reporting and business analytic development projects while working with cross functional teams.  Finally, our ideal candidate must have the ability to interact effectively with business end users, grasp both technical and business needs and have strong problem solving skills.

Principal Responsibilities

• Assist with system administration of all enterprise front and back-office applications
• Database Development creating stored procedures (PL-SQL and/or T-SQL), triggers, and queries
• Design, code, test and trouble shoot business reporting for end-users in Business Objects, Crystal Reports, Microsoft Reporting Services, Business Objects, Micro-strategy, and or other BI tools.
• Assist with QA and Unit testing of solutions
• Prepare documentation & flow charts of systems, business processes and databases
• Provide off-hours  application and reporting support as needed
• Help Design and develop ETL processes to integrate data among business systems and data warehouse in both Oracle and MS SQL Server environments.

 Qualifications/Requirements

• BA or BS in Information Systems, Information Technology, or Computer Science
• At least  5-7 years Relevant Experience
• Must have solid understanding of relational databases
• Must be adept working in Oracle and SQL Server environments using PL-SQL and T-SQL
• Programming in Microsoft.Net using C#, ASP.Net, Web Services, Html, XML, CSS, VB 6.0 a plus
• Experience  in manufacturing and distribution environment a Plus

Skills:

• Must have passion for business applications support, report writing and database development
• Must possess ability to communicate and interact effectively at both technical and business level
• Must be willing to learn new technology and provide support to our IT organization as needed
• Self-starter with strong work ethic
• Strong team player with ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment
• Excellent verbal , written and presentation skills
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking and project management skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong desire to improve and grow continuously with an Organization

We offer a competitive compensation package, paid time off plans and a robust benefits package with best in class medical, dental, vision, life, short and long term disability plans.  Our 401(k) plan has a generous company match. Visit us on the web at www.wellpet.com.  To apply for this position submit your resume by email to jobs@wellpet.com Please include “Database Programmer Analyst” in the subject line of your email.   

We have an immediate opening in the Greater Houston Area for an Account Manager to join our Sales team.   As an Account Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Managing an account base of pet specialty retailers in your assigned geographic area of Houston & points South, Austin, San Antonio & Lousiana with 40% overnight travel
• The ideal candidate resides in the Houston, TX area
• Delivering results against set sales and placement quotas
• Reporting on sales activities
• Implementing promotional sales including national promotions and new products
• Conducting product seminars, attend trade shows, dog/cat shows and other events with occasional weekend work

This position is ideally suited for an individual who has excellent verbal & written communication skills, a strong customer focus and is detail oriented & organized.  Other requirements include: 

• A successful sales track of 2+ years in pet industry required
• BS degree or equivalent experience
• Being self directed, flexible and work independently
• Computer proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and CMS tools

 We offer a competitive compensation package as well as medical, dental, life, short and long term disability, 401(k) plan with a company match, and generous paid time off plans.  Visit us on the web at www.wellpet.com.  To apply for this position submit your resume by email to jobs@wellpet.com Please include “Account Manager Houston” in the subject line of your email.  Local candidates only; no phone calls or third parties please. 

We have an immediate opening in our Sales Team for the newly created position as District Sales Manager in Sydney, to manage New South Wales and Queensland.  Reporting to the Managing Director – Asia, the District Sales Manager (DSM) is responsible for coordination of retail sales efforts and distribution activities within a defined district to achieve or exceed the district sales and growth objectives  The DSM will be responsible for building relationships with the Distributor principles and internal support teams to form a strong, synchronized “WellPet District Sales Team”  This role is responsible for managing established expense (MT & E and SDF) budgets, execute sales and marketing programs, execute retailer service packages for the overall delivery of WellPet services and products to the customer base in their district.

Other Key Responsibilities

• Set and communicate team expectations and goals, measure performance results, provide appropriate training, skill development and coaching to motivate the sales team to deliver on account sales goals.
• Develop effective annual business plans with assigned distributors that set clear, realistic, and stretch expectations with established goals, milestones and desired results.  Evaluate plans quarterly and modify where appropriate.
• Establish and maintain good business relationships with distributor principals and be cognizant of the financial strength, challenges, strategic direction and overall value of the distributor.
• In conjunction with the WellPet Marketing Team coordinate advertising promotional mailings and bulletins to 3-tier retailers.
• Motivate distributors and distributor sales reps through implementation and promotion of sales promotions, programs and new product introductions.
• Define and manage Key Accounts and motivate distributors and distributor sales reps through implementation and promotion of sales promotions, programs and new product introductions.
• Establish Account Manager’s call cycle goals relative to business planning and promotional activities.  Assure execution of the Account Manager’s retail call cycle goals relative to pre-defined route calls, promotional activity, quality merchandising and identifying product needs.
• Support the WellPet business acumen, professional selling skills and industry/category knowledge development initiative.
• Utilize the Objective Based Management Process through appropriate behavior modeling, coaching and execution requirements.
• Integrate the “AMPP” category management tool to maximize merchandising opportunities on shelf.

This position is ideally suited for an individual who has a successful track record in sales and sales management selling in a three tier distribution system (distributor, retailer and consumer).  Other requirements include: 

• Strong business and financial base of knowledge as it relates to the overall business functions of the distributor.
• Knowledge and understanding of the sales forecast and budgeting process. 
• Understanding of fundamental retailer and distributor profitability structure, business organization and financial fundamentals of a 3-tier distribution system.
• Able to establish and build strong relationships with retail store owners/managers by understanding and responding to their issues, challenges and opportunities
• Effective team building and relationship management skills with direct reports, customers and distributors. Motivational leadership, coaching and staff management skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly convey information generate ideas and quickly resolve issues to engage and motivate the Key Account Managers and Account Managers.
• Organizational agility, creative problem solver, able to get things done through others.
• Strong and thorough knowledge of fundamental and advanced selling techniques and psychology.
• Thorough understanding of pet industry and natural pet food category consumer buying habits, patterns and trends.
• Self starter highly motivated and goal oriented for high results; takes initiative and positively engages others.
• Excellent computer skills including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other sales and merchandising applications.
• Must have ability to operate a motor vehicle safely and maintain an acceptable driving record.

We offer a competitive compensation package as well as medical, dental, life, short and long term disability, RRSP company match, and generous paid time off plans.  Visit us on the web at www.wellpet.com.  To apply for this position submit your resume by email to jobs@wellpet.com Please include “DSM-NSW” in the subject line of your email. 

We are currently recruiting for a Planner/Buyer.  In this position you will report to the Commodities Manager and be responsible for the timely production planning of packaging and finished goods, and for all communication and coordination between our outsourced manufacturing partners and all supporting disciplines.  Specifically, you will:

• Plan/Procure Finished Goods in support of our demand forecast and inventory goals, using our ERP system
• Maintain and track supply chain planning metrics critical to customer fulfillment, product freshness, inventory management & co manufacturing vendor performance.
• Drive all planning operations related activities/ tasks per required monthly schedule.
• Drive the co manufacturer vendor-WellPet relationship, track finished products yield performance, ensure production, testing and delivery of finished goods per WellPet required lead times.
• Support the marketing group with transition of inventory related to new product launches, line extensions and any other changes. Minimize write offs by coordinating/tracking finished goods buys/inventory levels to meet launch timelines.
• Work with existing suppliers on an ongoing basis to support program and product requirements
• Travel to suppliers periodically

This position is ideally suited for an individual who is analytical, detail oriented, and organized.  Other requirements include: 

• BS degree in a related field
• 5+ years of planning and purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment or a consumer products/goods company
• Strong analytical & reporting skills
• Strong, results-oriented, project management skills with demonstrated ability to work with multiple disciplines and lead everyone to a common goal
• Extensive experience using formal planning systems (MS & MRP)
• Hold certification through APICS or other supply chain programs
• PC literacy with Microsoft Office
• Advanced experience with Microsoft Excel
• Collaborative, team player with a “can do” attitude

POSITION SUMMARY: Under direction of the Warehouse Manager, performs a variety of functions related to shipment of customer orders and warehouse storage operations. Includes staging and preparation of pallets for shipment and accurate completion of required paperwork. Assures compliance with GMP’s and safety standards are maintained.

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Ensures all outgoing shipments are picked accurately using a pre-printed customer order slip (Packing Slip).
• Stages orders 2/3 days out for loading onto pallets for shipment.
• Build loads for transport; each type of loading requires strict attention to order accuracy.
• Stacks product required onto pallet according to the plant stacking requirements. Completed pallets may carry multiple SKU’s.
• Ensure order is loaded in a manner that adheres to customer profile.
• Complete Shipping Forms as required and insure distribution of copies follows established packing procedures.
• Using a forklift, may unload finished product and supplies from incoming trailers, pallets or skids and transfer to correct storage areas.
• Performs cycle counts on finished product by date.
• Counts packaging materials as requested by supervisor.
• Operates shrink wrap equipment.
• Organize, maintain and store packaging materials as directed by Supervisor.
• Advise supervisor of any unsafe conditions to assist in providing a safe environment for other workers who walk through the warehouse.
• Follow and maintain GMP standards at all times.
• Participate and assist in quarterly inventory process.
• Safely operates forklift/stand up reach truck
• Using forklift, delivers packaging to Plant lines.
• Using forklift, removes loaded pallets to designated areas for compliance with Positive Release Program
• Supplies production line with empty containers removes full product and moves to staging area.  Supplies packaging material to line as needed, loads trucks according to loading instructions and maintains pallet supplies in the building.
• May fill out “Hold” tags in compliance with Quality Assurance Positive Release Program requirements.
• Completes all required documentation with accuracy.
• Advises appropriate leads of any unsafe conditions in both plant and warehouse areas.
• Able to troubleshoot some equipment issues and advise maintenance of needed repairs or preventive care.
• Responsible for Continuous Improvement ideas and implementation in assigned area.
• Participate in team functions as required
• Must maintain warehouse in an organized and clean manner to ensure safety and good manufacturing processes
• Interact with warehouse team members, quality control, and production to maximize output and efficiency
• Other duties as directed by the supervisor. 

EQUIPMENT:

• Forklift, Hand truck, Tape gun, shrink wrap machine, scan gun proficient

 QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to perform counts using basic arithmetic skill.
• Demonstrated forklift/stand up reach truck operation skills.
• Scan gun proficient
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50lbs consistently throughout shift.
• Tolerance for both hot and cold environment.
• Prior experience working in warehouse environment desirable.
• Ability to understand and carry out instructions.
• Communicates well verbally and in writing using the English language.
• High School or GED equivalent

POSITION SUMMARY:  Under direction of the Warehouse Manager, the inter-site coordinator will work to coordinate inter-site orders including direct from production loading or staging of orders that will be sent to other distribution sites. This will include communicating with production line pull, the plan for loading containers as well as coordinating pickup of containers with outside carriers. There will be daily interaction with Planner/ buyer group in Tewksbury and the Mishawka Operations Planning Manger to understand production requirements as well as the requirements of the distribution centers. Understanding of IFS and WMS are Key to this position. This position will be responsible for backfilling for the Customer Shipping Coordinator and/ or the shipping lead in their absence.  In addition they could be asked to perform a variety of functions related to shipment of customer orders and warehouse storage operations, including staging and preparation of pallets for shipment and accurate completion of required paperwork. Assuring compliance with GMP’s and safety standards are maintained at all times.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Good knowledge of IFS and WMS. 
• The ability to communicate and give clear direction to others through phone, email as well as face to face.
• Ensures all outgoing shipments are picked accurately using a pre-printed customer order slip (Packing Slip).
• Stages orders 2/3 days out for loading onto pallets for shipment.
• Build loads for transport; each type of loading requires strict attention to order accuracy.
• Stacks product required onto pallet according to the plant stacking requirements. Completed pallets may carry multiple SKU’s.
• Ensure order is loaded in a manner that adheres to customer profile.
• Complete Shipping Forms as required and insure distribution of copies follows established packing procedures.
• Using a forklift, may unload finished product and supplies from incoming trailers, pallets or skids and transfer to correct storage areas.
• Performs cycle counts on finished product by date.
• Counts packaging materials as requested by supervisor.
• Operates shrink wrap equipment.
• Organize, maintain and store packaging materials as directed by Supervisor.
• Advise supervisor of any unsafe conditions to assist in providing a safe environment for other workers who walk through the warehouse.
• Follow and maintain GMP standards at all times.
• Participate and assist in quarterly inventory process.
• Safely operates forklift/stand up reach truck
• Using forklift, delivers packaging to Plant lines.
• Using forklift, removes loaded pallets to designated areas for compliance with Positive Release Program
• Supplies production line with empty containers removes full product and moves to staging area.  Supplies packaging material to line as needed, loads trucks according to loading instructions and maintains pallet supplies in the building.
• May fill out “Hold” tags in compliance with Quality Assurance Positive Release Program requirements.
• Completes all required documentation with accuracy.
• Advises appropriate leads of any unsafe conditions in both plant and warehouse areas.
• Able to troubleshoot some equipment issues and advise maintenance of needed repairs or preventive care.
• Responsible for Continuous Improvement ideas and implementation in assigned area.
• Participate in team functions as required
• Must maintain warehouse in an organized and clean manner to ensure safety and good manufacturing processes
• Interact with warehouse team members, quality control, and production to maximize output and efficiency
• Other duties as directed by the supervisor. 

EQUIPMENT:

• Forklift, Hand truck, Tape gun, shrink wrap machine, scan gun proficient

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to perform counts using basic arithmetic skill.
• Demonstrated forklift/stand up reach truck operation skills.
• Scan gun proficient
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50lbs consistently throughout shift.
• Tolerance for both hot and cold environment.
• Prior experience working in warehouse environment desirable.
• Ability to understand and carry out instructions.
• Communicates well verbally and in writing using the English language.

• High School or GED equivalent

POSITION SUMMARY:  Responsible for laboratory based tasks, such as, sampling, testing, measuring, recording, and analyzing results based on biological, chemical, or physical properties while adhering to correct procedures and health and safety guidelines.

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Performing laboratory tests to produce reliable and precise data that will be utilized to hold or release product from a computerized inventory system.
• Operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment, for example, pipettors, vortex units, temperature blocks, water baths, incubators, near infra-red analyzers, and PCR unit. 
• Use computers and perform mathematical calculations for the preparation of graphs and the analysis of data.
• Submit samples to third party labs for additional testing or confirmation of test results received.
• Maintain the sample library by properly organizing and storing samples in accordance with procedures.
• Inventory parts and supply stock to ensure the laboratory is well stocked and resourced.
• Issue purchase orders for needed stock or parts as needed.
• Communicates thoughts orally and in writing in a clear, well-organized manner that effectively informs, and clarifies ideas, information, and lab techniques/procedures to others.
• Practices ethical standards of integrity, honesty, and fairness.
• Complies with policies, procedures, and record-keeping necessary to meet standards of accrediting and regulatory agencies.  
• Other duties as assigned by the Laboratory Supervisor or Quality & Food Safety Manager.

JOB RELATED COMPETENCIES:

 Must be able to read and understand English to be able to communicate with Supervisor/Manager and comprehend work instructions

• Positive Attitude, Safety Mindset, Strong Work Ethic, Team Builder/Flexible, Customer and Quality Focused, Not easily Frustrated, Desire to Work Hands On and Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Dependable with ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Prior experience in a production environment, preferably food or beverage manufacturing.
• Good verbal and mathematical capability at a high school level.
• Ability to read and understand process operating procedures.
• Good oral and written communications skills.
• Sufficient computer skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and in a positive manner
• Demonstrated ability to work well in teams
• Demonstrated willingness to assume extended job responsibility and exercise good judgment in decision making
• Ability to work cooperatively with all departments.
• Ability to follow detailed, technical directions.
• Ability to communicate across all levels of production team and work in team environment.
• Must be able to perform physical demands of the position including lifting up to50 pounds in order to move ingredients and finished product, stand, walk, push/pull up to 50 pounds, reach overhead, bend to the floor and stand for extended periods of time.
• Willingness to work any shift, extended hours weekends.

 EDUCATION:

Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry or Food Science preferred.

One year of Quality Assurance related experience.

High School Degree or GED equivalent

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Combination of Plant and Office environment.
• Frequent exposure to elements such as odor, noise, heat, cold, dust & chemicals.

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Warehouse manager, the Data Steward monitors IFS and WMS to ensure that the master data stays in sink, owner of cycle counts and product returns, scrap procedure, and scheduling the end of year physical count of the warehouse.

 The Data Steward understands the replenishment process, sets up new locations, and owns the master data, Interacts with QA/LAB when quality concerns occur. This position requires attention to detail, researching variances, and requires a blend of skills and experience that are specifically focused on the inventory management of several hundred items within on-site warehouse. This position will be integral component of the Distribution team by providing accurate details of on-hand inventory,

The Data Steward is responsible for maintaining a high level of inventory accuracy and integrity within the facility.  This role will serve to maximize space utilization, monitoring inventory levels and product movement.  The Data Steward will also be responsible for ensuring a conforming product mix, facilitating efficient order fulfillment, and contributing to a safe and orderly working environment.

Understanding of IFS and WMS are key to this position. This position will be responsible for backfilling for the Customer Shipping Coordinator and/ or the shipping lead in their absence.  In addition they could be asked to perform a variety of functions related to shipment of customer orders and warehouse storage operations, including staging and preparation of pallets for shipment and accurate completion of required paperwork. Assuring compliance with GMP’s and safety standards are maintained at all times.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Run inventory reports on daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
• Develop accurate, consistent and enhancements to the inventory reporting structure..
• Perform inventory adjustments
• Perform visual validation of received merchandise to description and package details from original purchase order.
• Manage the RMA process. Includes item documentation - tracking, adjusting / destroying.
• Input product description information in current inventory systems.
• Perform in a manner consistent with company Vision, Mission Statement and Operating Principles
• Good knowledge of IFS and WMS. 
• The ability to communicate and give clear direction to others through phone, email as well as face to face.

• Ensures all outgoing shipments are picked accurately using a pre-printed customer order slip (Packing Slip).
• Stages orders 2/3 days out for loading onto pallets for shipment.
• Build loads for transport; each type of loading requires strict attention to order accuracy.
• Stacks product required onto pallet according to the plant stacking requirements. Completed pallets may carry multiple SKU’s.
• Ensure order is loaded in a manner that adheres to customer profile.
• Complete Shipping Forms as required and insure distribution of copies follows established packing procedures.
• Using a forklift, may unload finished product and supplies from incoming trailers, pallets or skids and transfer to correct storage areas.
• Performs cycle counts on finished product by date.
• Counts packaging materials as requested by supervisor.
• Operates shrink wrap equipment.
• Organize, maintain and store packaging materials as directed by Supervisor.
• Advise supervisor of any unsafe conditions to assist in providing a safe environment for other workers who walk through the warehouse.
• Follow and maintain GMP standards at all times.
• Safely operates forklift/stand up reach truck
• Using forklift, delivers packaging to Plant lines.
• Using forklift, removes loaded pallets to designated areas for compliance with Positive Release Program
• Supplies production line with empty containers removes full product and moves to staging area.  Supplies packaging material to line as needed, loads trucks according to loading instructions and maintains pallet supplies in the building.
• May fill out “Hold” tags in compliance with Quality Assurance Positive Release Program requirements.
• Completes all required documentation with accuracy.
• Advises appropriate leads of any unsafe conditions in both plant and warehouse areas.
• Able to troubleshoot some equipment issues and advise maintenance of needed repairs or preventive care.
• Responsible for Continuous Improvement ideas and implementation in assigned area.
• Participate in team functions as required
• Must maintain warehouse in an organized and clean manner to ensure safety and good manufacturing processes
• Interact with warehouse team members, quality control, and production to maximize output and efficiency
• Other duties as directed by the supervisor. 

EQUIPMENT:

• Forklift, Hand truck, Tape gun, shrink wrap machine, scan gun proficient

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to perform counts using basic arithmetic skill.
• Demonstrated forklift/stand up reach truck operation skills.
• Scan gun proficient
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50lbs consistently throughout shift.
• Tolerance for both hot and cold environment.
• Prior experience working in warehouse environment desirable.
• Ability to understand and carry out instructions.
• Communicates well verbally and in writing using the English language.

• High School or GED equivalent

POSITION SUMMARY:  This role is responsible for correctly, safely and efficiently packaging production.  Must be able to operate, troubleshoot packaging equipment according to scheduled production needs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Responsible for setting up and starting up and operation of packaging equipment according to the production schedule.
• Monitors equipment and uses tools to make adjustments, change over’s, small repairs and perform basic maintenance as required.
• Miscellaneous job duties that may include but are not limited to product quality testing, minor maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment, operating bin discharge and reclaim equipment, housekeeping tasks, repalletizing/disposal of distressed product.
• Practices and maintains the highest safety, quality and product standards.
• Ensure printer is set with correct code dates and that dates are legible and stamped correctly on all packaging.
• Inspects product on packaging line in accordance with special inspections
• Maintains records and logs during entire packaging process by entering appropriate information in order to document packaging process and reconcile usage of materials and transfers of product
• Performs and documents in-process quality checks on a periodic basis on representative samples in order to ensure that product is correctly packaged.
• Cleans, disassembles and reassembles line equipment in order to prepare machine for inspection or deep cleaning.
• Performs line staging by obtaining necessary parts, products, components, printed material, etc and brining them to the line
• Changes over/sets up machine for run by loading product, components, printed material, etc; adjusting settings; checking the line; and obtaining line clearance in order to prepare equipment for next packaging run
• Responsible for the operation , cleaning, maintenance and set-up of packaging equipment
• Perform routine maintenance and mechanical/electrical parameter set up.
• Documents tasks in associated batch records, forms and protocols.
• Observes and maintains safe, efficient machine operation on all production runs.
• Insures cleanliness of production area.
• Trains other employees to run packaging and palletizer equipment as needed.
• Responsible for continuous improvement ideas and implementation in assigned area.
• Participates in quarterly inventory process.
• Makes adjustments, clears jams, and otherwise troubleshoots equipment to ensure efficient machine operation
• Performs work in a safe manner, and is responsible for following all safety policies and procedures, including Lock-out/Tag-out.
• Works to achieve 100% on-time completion of scheduled production
• Assists with entering information into company’s monitoring system
• Completes and fills out daily logs and paperwork, completes daily cleaning and preventative maintenance tasks
• Ensures all daily manufacturing documents are completed and are accurate
• Maintain skill level with company growth
• Promotes teamwork and fosters an atmosphere conducive to the effective use of teamwork to achieve objectives.
• Ensure equipment is properly operated according to safety guidelines
• Understand and performs Lock-out/Tag-out procedures
• Follows plant safety procedures and guidelines including wearing PPE required
• Follows plant quality practices including GMP’s
• Informs Supervisors/Managers of safety issues
• Understands how to handle machine properly during emergencies
• Occasionally assist in training of individuals in packaging process
• Be willing and able to attend job related training and attain marks which indicate satisfactory knowledge of the job requirements.
• This associate will work as a team member in whatever capacity and job function is required to deliver a quality product to our customers in a timely fashion.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

JOB RELATED COMPETENCIES:

• Understands plant process flow.
• Positive Attitude, Safety Mindset, Strong Work Ethic, Team Builder/Flexible, Customer and Quality Focused, Not easily Frustrated, Desire to Work Hands On and Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Must be able to read and understand English to be able to communicate with Supervisor/Manager and comprehend work instructions.
• Dependable with ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Forklift experience and/or certification
• Sound understanding and/or experience/aptitude with packaging systems and conveying equipment
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
• Experience/aptitude computerized equipment (i.e.: scales, controllers, computer based operator interfaces, etc)
• Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively and in a positive manner
• Demonstrated ability to work well in teams
• Demonstrated willingness to assume extended job responsibility and exercise good judgment in decision making
• Experience in packaging equipment such as, bag hangers, bagging scales, cartoners, case packers and servo – base robotics
• Knowledge of the following equipment is preferred:  Roberts, Thiele & Taylor Line Bagers; Videojet Date Coders; Autoprint Case Coders; Belcor Bag Line Tapers; Mettle-Toledo Check Weigher; Yamato Multi Scale Feed System; Massman Packer; Wexxar Case Erector; Ceia Metal Detectors; Thiele Scale Feed System; Hytrol Case Conveyor System; Columbia Okura Robotic Palletizers; Lantech Stretchwrapper; Quadrel Labeling System (Pallet print & Apply); and Bastian Solutions Automatic Pallet conveyor Systems.
• Knowledge in vacuum systems, air compressors and servo motors (robotic motions)
• Knowledge of Intermec scan guns, program Windows Mobil 6 and must be able to read gun in English.
• Must possess effective written and oral communication skills and be able to handle multiple projects within limited time frames
• Excellent attention to detail
• Able to work according to production schedule, overtime may be required
• Strong inter-personal and team building skills
• Prior experience in a production environment, preferably food or beverage manufacturing.
• Good verbal and mathematical capability at a high school level.
• Ability to read and understand process operating procedures.
• Good oral and written communications skills.
• Sufficient computer skills to operate and adjust machine to meet product specifications.
• Ability to work cooperatively with all departments.
• Ability to follow detailed, technical directions.
• Ability to communicate across all levels of production team and work in team environment.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift 35-50 pounds in order to move ingredients and finished product, stand, walk, push/pull up to 50 pounds, reach overhead, and bend to the floor
• Willingness to work any shift, extended hours weekends.

EDUCATION:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Some form of technical education which emphasizes strong analytical thinking preferred
• Knowledge and experience with Electrical, Mechanical, hydraulics and pneumatics is highly preferred
• Familiarity with computer applications

POSITION SUMMARY:  Set-up, operate and disassemble, processing equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and GMPs.  Operate processing equipment, grinding, batching, extrusion, drying, coating, fresh meat according to scheduled production needs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Set-up, operate and disassemble, processing equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and GMPs.
• Responsible for setting up and starting up production equipment according to the production schedule.
• Troubleshoots production line equipment as needed.
• Monitor product, visually and with micrometer; ensure product is running according to job specifications
• Monitors equipment and uses tools to make adjustments and perform basic maintenance as required.
• Practices and maintains the highest safety, quality and product standards.
• Changes die to insure correct kibble sizes by brand and SKU.
• Checks and documents moisture, temperature, protein and liquid fat levels on frequent basis to ensure product meets all quality parameters.
• Observes and maintains safe, efficient machine operation on all production runs.
• May provide assistance to packaging line employees and pallet loaders as necessary for efficient production needs.
• Insures cleanliness of production area.
• Trains other associates to run production equipment as needed.
• Responsible for continuous improvement ideas and implementation in assigned area.
• Participates in quarterly inventory process.
• Works to achieve 100% on-time completion of scheduled production
• Assists with entering information into company’s monitoring system
• Completes and fills out daily logs and paperwork, completes daily cleaning and preventative maintenance tasks
• Ensure equipment is properly operated according to safety guidelines
• Understands and performs Lock-out/Tag-out procedures
• Follows plant safety procedures and guidelines including wearing PPE required
• Follows plant quality practices including GMP’s
• Informs Supervisors/Managers of safety issues
• Understands how to handle machine properly during emergencies
• Occasionally assist in training of individuals in processing procedures
• This associate will work as a team member in whatever capacity and job function is required to deliver a quality product to our customers in a timely fashion.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

JOB RELATED COMPETENCIES:

• Understands plant process flow.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
• Must be familiar with use of hand tools and measuring devices
• Must be able to read and understand English to be able to communicate with Supervisor/Manager and comprehend work instructions
• 1-3 years RECENT experience with Extrusion Operation
• Positive Attitude, Safety Mindset, Strong Work Ethic, Team Builder/Flexible, Customer and Quality Focused, Not easily Frustrated, Desire to Work Hands On and Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Dependable with ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Prior experience in a production environment, preferably food or beverage manufacturing.
• Good verbal and mathematical capability at a high school level.
• Ability to read and understand process operating procedures.
• Good oral and written communications skills.
• Sufficient computer skills to operate and adjust machine to meet product specifications.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and in a positive manner
• Demonstrated ability to work well in teams
• Demonstrated willingness to assume extended job responsibility and exercise good judgment in decision making
• Ability to work cooperatively with all departments.
• Ability to follow detailed, technical directions.
• Ability to communicate across all levels of production team and work in team environment.
• Must be able to perform physical demands of the position including lifting up to50 pounds in order to move ingredients and finished product, stand, walk, push/pull up to 50 pounds, reach overhead, bend to the floor and stand for extended periods of time.
• Willingness to work any shift, extended hours weekends.

EDUCATION:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Some form of technical education which emphasizes strong analytical thinking preferred
• Knowledge & experience with Electrical, Mechanical, Hydraulics & Pneumatics is highly preferred
• Familiarity with computer applications.