Machine Operator 1 - W. M. Barr & Company, Inc.

Position Summary:

This position is responsible for the manufacture of finished products in accordance with Fill and Pack run instructions. This requires the operation of complex filling equipment in Process Safety Management (PSM) regulated areas. Position is responsible for transferring liquids / powders from batch tanks or bulk storage tanks for machine operations that ensure quality and conformity of packaged products to meet product specification and quality standards. Work is performed under the general direction of the Operations Supervisor and follows prescribed guidelines and procedures in the performance of work activities.

Key Areas of Accountability:

Safety, Quality, Productivity, to include PSM standards

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Must complete training and pass PSM qualifications test. (written and performance)
• Prepares machine for production ensuring efficient equipment operation to meet production standards; operates equipment related to the transfer of the batches into containers and the application of closures to the containers; accurately documents work activities and processes.
• Operates filling machinery at the optimum level to ensure quality and conformity of packaged products; inspects equipment and/or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects; seeks opportunities to minimize downtime and product quality defects.
• Responsible for ensuring that the correct batch is filled and specified fill weights are maintained during the filling and packaging process; communicates with lab personnel as needed for approval for filling and determining fill weights.
• Performs total quality checks in accordance with Fill and Pack run instructions, including fill weights
• Performs rudimentary analysis of product samples via satellite lab
• Performs setup and changeover responsibilities for assigned equipment in accordance with production time standards.
• Responsible for assigned machine preventive maintenance; performs continuous clean downs to ensure smooth continuous running including area inspection with regards to cleanliness and orderliness; keeps Daily Performance Log on machine.
• Understands and completes administrative work to support line activity to include work in process reports, quantity and quality records, down time, breaks, Daily Schedule Control (DSC) sheets, etc.
• Clears jams; stops and resets machine when malfunctions occur; records and if necessary, reports all malfunctions; troubleshoots and works with mechanic until machine is restored to operating order.
• Works on different lines as production needs require, may shift from one work location to another during production.Safely cleans up and disposes of hazardous materials / waste generated during filling operation.
• Maintains work area following general housekeeping and regulatory rules; participates in chemical spill cleanup when necessary.
• Performs all work in accordance with Barr’s quality guidelines and procedures; demonstrates clear understanding of these quality objectives.
• Performs activities of Production Team Member as required by business needs; performs other duties or special projects as assigned by Operations Supervisor.
• Observes Barr guidelines on safety, dress code, and housekeeping at all times; reports any potential safety hazards on equipment or machinery in use; wears prescribed personal protective equipment.
• Manually adjust equipment for size changes using wrenches and tools.
• Adjust equipment to center lines manually.

Qualifications/Experience

High school diploma or GED required and a minimum of three years experience in a manufacturing environment requiring the operation of mixing, blending, packaging or related equipment and demonstrated mechanical aptitude. Successful candidate must pass initial comprehensive skills test. ISO experience and familiarity with OSHA Process Safety Management standards (PSM) a plus.

Must have demonstrated ability to understand all standard operating procedures and use them as a manufacturing tool; must have strong reading, writing and mathematical skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, averages, fractions, percentages); must have ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; must be computer literate, have the ability to meet and adhere to all attendance and hours of work requirements; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; ability to work with hands; ability to work overtime as required; must be able to read, write, speak, and comprehend English.

Preferred experience working with any of the following machines:

• Autolabe
• Quadrel
• Leighbinger
• Dual Tape Machines
• KHS Packaging Units
• Combi Packaging Equipment
• Serac Rotary Fillers
• Fowler Cappers
• Douglas Case Packers
• Currie Palletizers
• Flat Top Conveying Systems
• High Speed Checkwares

Work Environment/Physical Demands/Travel

• Manufacturing environment with loud noise level.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, reach, climb, stoop, talk, hear and see for extended periods of time; frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds; specific vision abilities include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to read and understand documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, batch sheet instructions, correspondence, etc.; ability to write routing reports and correspondence; ability to speak and present information to team members, supervisor, and others in one-on-one or small group situations.
• Ability to be trained on a variety of complex filling machines.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, fractions and decimals; ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to interpret graphs, charts and other documents.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written and oral instructions; ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in routine situations.
• Ability to have regular exposure to fumes or airborne particles; ability to work near moving equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow plant safety rules for PPE, chemical spills and grounding and bonding.
• The use of safety glasses is required.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it was not meant to be all-inclusive of the tasks that may be assigned.