Drying Operator bei undefined

Job Title : Drying Operator 

Reports To: Production Manager

Location: Eustis FL 

Job Summary: Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drying equipment used to process various food products. This role ensures that the drying process meets production standards , maintains product quality, and adheres to food safety and regulatory guidelines. Operators are tasked with setting up, monitoring and maintaining machines and equipment used in  production lines. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

•  High school diploma or equivalent required

•  At least one year of related experience required

•  Proven experience as a drying operator or in a similar role within the food manufacturing 

industry.

•  Strong understanding of drying processes and food safety regulations.

•  Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities, and make decisions with general 

guidance and supervision

•  Working knowledge, skills, and ability to understand, interpret and assess FDA, Food and Plant 

Safety, product, process and quality-related requirements and to ensure adherence to all HACCP 

protocols, GMPs and SOPs

•  Relevant knowledge of equipment, process and production capabilities

•  Experience using ERP/ MES/ MRP / Shop Manufacturing Systems a plus

•  Ability to work overtime, off shift, and weekends as needed

•  Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety shoes, eye 

protection, hearing protection, and any additional requirements necessary for specific tasks such 

as cleaning and handling materials.

SKILLS, TRAITS, & COMPETENCIES:

•  Ability to follow directions and work well in a team

•  Ability to interpret and translate engineering designs and documentation

•  Thorough understanding of or the ability to quickly learn production equipment

•  Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

•  Understanding of and the ability to abide by applicable OSHA and environmental regulations

•  Implement Lean Six Sigma Methodology

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

•  Operation of Drying Equipment: Set up, operate, and monitor Vacuum Belt Dryers, rotary dryers, to process food products

•  Operates production machinery in accordance with prints and specifications

•  Maintains production logs and records

•  Assist supervisor to ensure the department complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), 

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control (HACCP) and Safe Quality Foods (SQF)

•  Quality Control: Monitor drying conditions (temperature, humidity, airflow, etc.) to ensure the 

product meets specified moisture content and quality standards

•  Product Handling: Load and unload food products onto drying racks or machines, ensuring safe and 

efficient processing

•  Process Monitoring: Continuously observe the drying process, adjust settings as necessary, and 

troubleshoot issues like equipment malfunctions or deviations from product specifications

•  Maintenance and Cleaning: Regularly inspect and clean drying equipment to ensure optimal 

performance, prevent contamination, and extend equipment lifespan

•  Safety and Compliance: Follow all safety guidelines and health regulations, including proper use 

of personal protective

equipment (PPE) and compliance with food safety standards.

•  Documentation: Keep detailed records of drying processes, including equipment settings, 

temperatures, production times, and any issues encountered.

•  Collaboration: Work closely with other operators, supervisors, and quality control teams to 

ensure the production process runs smoothly and efficiently.

•  Inventory Control: Ensure adequate inventory of raw materials for the drying process and 

communicate with the warehouse or procurement team for restocking as needed.

•  Works safely and ensures the department complies with all safety rules

•  Carry out microbial analysis according to batch records using good sterile technique

•  Complete basic lab procedures ensuring accuracy and validity of results.

•  Assist with general laboratory procedures including but not limited to preparation of solvents, 

buffers, resins, reagent solutions, media prep; measuring and dispensing of solid and liquid 

chemicals and raw materials

•  Cleaning and sterilization of equipment, instruments, materials and processing areas

•  Executes on various projects developed by R&D

•  Performs housekeeping tasks as assigned per GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)

•  Other duties as assigned or required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

•  Repetitive lifting 50 to 60 pounds

•  Climbing stairs and ladders

•  Prolonged standing and walking

•  Repetitive bending, twisting and kneeling

•  Visual acuity to read instructions, operate machines, and inspect product

•  Ability to work in high-temperature environments

•  Ability to tolerate prolonged heat