Spray Dryer Operator

We are looking for a dedicated and skilled Spray Dry Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for operating spray drying equipment to convert liquid food flavors into high-quality powdered products. The ideal candidate will have experience with industrial processing equipment, strong attention to quality and safety, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Spray Dry: Operate equipment used in the spray dry process to convert liquid flavors into powdered products, including pumps, bulk filling equipment, bagging systems, and automated control systems.
• Oversee Materials: Oversee flow of materials from liquid processing through dry super sacks and final packaging. Accurately record production data and maintain documentation.
• Quality Control: Take samples of dry ingredients and finished products as part of in-process quality control to ensure consistency and meet customer specifications.
• Equipment Operation: Safely operate forklifts, and other handling equipment. Disassemble and reassemble machinery for sanitation and clean-up on a daily and weekly basis.
• Housekeeping & GMP: Maintain a clean and orderly work area, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to prevent contamination and damage.
• Hazard Communication & Safety: Ensure knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Collaboration & Flexibility: Assist other departments as needed and communicate the status of the process to the Manufacturing Supervisor to maintain batch integrity.

Qualifications

Skills, Training, and Experience

• Machinery, Tools, and Equipment: Familiar with spray drying, pumping, and filling equipment. Able to set up, operate, and maintain equipment safely.
• Forklift Operation: Certified to operate electric and hydraulic forklifts.
• Process Knowledge & Mechanical Aptitude: Knowledge of food manufacturing processes preferred. Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to resolve and troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Clerical & Documentation: Basic literacy and math skills to handle clerical work, including accurate counting, recording weights, and data entry. Ability to read and follow process specifications and temperature controls.
• Computer Skills: Basic computer proficiency and knowledge of IFS system.
• Safety and HazCom Training: Must be trained in handling hazardous chemicals and follow all safety procedures.
• Concentration and Accuracy: High attention to detail and strong focus is required to ensure customer orders are completed correctly.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Lifting & Dexterity: Must be able to lift 50-80 pounds and handle materials such as bags and supersacks. Dexterity is required for sealing and palletizing bags. Able to stand for extended periods of time and perform repetitive motions.
• Work Environment: Regular exposure to disagreeable odors, dust, and temperature extremes in an un-air-conditioned facility. Must wear the provided PPE (steel-toed boots, gloves, safety glasses, etc.).
• Eye Strain: Some eye strain may occur when performing clerical tasks, but the work is performed in a well-lit area.

Additional Information:

• Hours: Monday through Friday, 5:45 AM - 2:15 PM
• Union Facility: This position is part of a unionized work environment.
• Training: 30 Days
• Hazards: Exposure to chemical fumes, acidic, and caustic agents during cleaning processes. Risk of strain from lifting and moving materials.
• Concentration & Accuracy: High attention to detail is required for accurate blending and filling to ensure customer orders are completed correctly.

If you are mechanically inclined, safety-focused, and ready to contribute to high-quality food production, we encourage you to apply!