Operations Material Handler I (Days)

Job Summary:

The Operations Material Handler I will be required to:

• Operator will perform all tasks involving the delivery of raw materials, palletizing, documentation, and storage of all finished goods.
• Operate all energized and non-energized Forklift and Palletizing equipment including Forklifts, Pallet Jacks, Floor Scrubber, Palletizing Robot and shrink wrap machines.
• Follow written and verbal procedures to ensure quality and efficiency standards are being met.
• Assume responsibility for the Batch Output area efficiencies, safety, quality following all GMP and PPE requirements for the safety of others and oneself.
• Effectively communicates verbal and written information relevant to the position at the site.
• Fill in for vacations and or cover if other employees are absent.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Utilizing the Oracle production tools and wireless handheld RF scanners to generate labels placing them on pallets and account for inventory.
• Scan bar codes to make sure codes are accurate and legible.
• Places finished product pallets in the warehouse processing all necessary moves including immediate transactions for the final locations.
• Communicate to all other facility personnel regarding any delays or problems that hinder production.
• Monitors and fixes faults as well as clearing any material jams in palletizing equipment.
• Perform forklift inspections prior to shift with accurate documentation.
• Conducts required quality checks to assure standards are met.
• Maintains communications within production team ensuring smooth shift transitions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment.
• Support mechanics in appropriate maintenance activities.
• Monitor raw packaging material and supplies to ensure it is supplied in an efficient manor to support production.
• Maintain ingredients and material on a First in First Out basis (FIFO).
• Relieve other production team members for breaks and absences as required.
• Accurately prepares and maintains all area paperwork.
• Must be able to work both independently as well as professionally with other team members.
• All other duties, as assigned.

Key Accountabilities:

Safety

• Adheres to all plant safety rules.
• Reports all near misses and accidents to the production supervisor and or HR representative.
• Serves an active role the plant safety programs, by participating in monthly safety inspections and reporting any potential safety hazards to the safety committee or Management.

Quality:

• Adheres to all Quality Assurance System guidelines.
• Follows SOP’s and SSOP’s (standard operating procedures and sanitation standard operating procedures) when making processing adjustments, to ensure the manufacturing of high-quality liquid-based products.
• Responsible for compliance with GMP’s, HACCP and SQF programs.
• Identifies all critical control points (CCP) understanding their functions it relates to the process.

Maintenance:

• When Maintenance is occurring in your work
• When equipment is in a state of disrepair these items must be reported ASAP to avoid break downs.

Housekeeping:

• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Assists all areas of the plant with general housekeeping.
• Cooperates with other shifts and the management team in housekeeping endeavors.

Communications:

• As a member of the Production team, ensures effective shift communication and teamwork with other operators occurs each scheduled shift.
• Maintains effective communication with members of the support group.

Teamwork and Training:

• Promotes and contributes to the development of a strong team.
• Works well among co-workers as a team.
• Assist in coaching and training employees as requested by the management team.

Personal Development:

• Continuously improve your knowledge of the Aseptic Filling process.
• Become familiar with SunOpta 360.
• Completes and adheres to the Annual Alchemy Schedule.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED required.
• 3 – 5 years of Forklift Driving.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Must be able to run all processors, CIPs, and monitor all surge tanks.
• Understands procedures for all allergens and how to prevent cross contamination.
• Must be able to perform maintenance on valves, surge tanks, and processors.
• Must be able to prepare and maintain accurate paperwork.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve moderate to complex issues associated with the processors and related equipment.
• Ability to assess a situation and make quick and accurate decisions that will aid in production.
• Must adhere to all GMP's and Safety Procedures established by Management.
• Understand terminology related to the process and surge equipment. 
• Must be able to stand and work for long periods of time (12) hours and lift a minimum 30-50 pounds frequently and push/pull pallet jacks and lifts with heavy loads.
• Computer and basic math skills.
• Ability to work in a team-based environment.
• Ability to multitask and meet deadlines.

Additional Considerations: 

• Location: This position will be at our SunOpta Plant in Midlothian, TX.
• Work Environment: The majority of work for this position will be performed in a manufacturing / plant environment.
• Shift: This is a day (A) shift opening on a 2-2-3 pattern; 6 am to 6:30 pm.
• Pay Rate: $21.00/hour.