Main Mixer/Pellet Mill Operator

Looking to join a four-time US Best Managed Company? Kent Nutrition Group, a member of the KENT® Corporation family of companies has an exciting opportunity to join their team as a Main Mixer/Pellet Mill Operator in Waterloo, IA! This critical role will perform all mixing and pelleting operations in both a timely and efficient manner while maintaining the highest quality standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Mixing:

• Operate the mash mixing system following all company procedures. This shall include, but is not limited to, mixing for pelleting, direct packaging, and bulk. Good housekeeping is to be maintained at all times.
• Follow pre-sequenced production schedules to be sure all feeds are mixed in accordance with established sequencing procedures, following KNGs established quality control procedures. This requires the ability to learn and follow current good manufacturing practices for sequencing, flushing and clean-outs.
• Must be able to lift 55 lbs bags of micro-ingredients to a height of 4 feet minimum to fill and refill dump bins/feeders appropriate to each mix. Must be able to do it continuously during assigned work period.
• Rework according to rework guidelines MZ-03-013.
• Fill out mixing logs thoroughly and accurately. Rectify all appropriate mixes, being sure that they meet company standards.
• Keep ingredient storage area clean, well swept and neat in appearance at all times. Use all micro-ingredients on a first in – first out basis to keep product fresh.
• Perform weekly cleaning of equipment as outlined in the weekly cleaning schedule.
• Pelleting:
  • Operate both the landers and sprout pelleting systems following company guidelines and procedures, maximizing production while maintaining quality standards. To pellet mixed ingredients from pellet supply bins to either load out, packing or the coarse dairy system supply bins. This includes pelleting and crumbling (when applicable). Good house keeping is to be maintained at all times.
  • Use pre-established operating parameters (or establish these on a new formula) to pellet various feeds, then properly cool and crumble (if necessary). All feed must meet the company’s standards and quality. This also requires the ability to learn and follow good manufacturing practices, flushing pellet dies and pelleting system required.
  • Must be able to safely change dies and rolls as required to accommodate different feeds. This requires the ability to lift all equipment and materials as the job requires. This also includes abilities to use various tools and have the physical strength to accomplish task.
  • Perform the company’s quality assurance tests to ensure product quality. This includes the pellet durability tests.
  • Safely operate all pelleting equipment and equipment included in the pellet systems. This requires a good sound understanding of the equipment, its geographic location in the plant and the control panel locations.
  • Perform assigned cleaning and servicing according to established guidelines and frequency schedule.
  • Maintain the pelleting schedule to maintain high efficiency and keep subsequent operations on schedule.
  • Keep pelleting reports thoroughly and accurately, recording all pertinent and necessary information.
  • Make all changes necessary in operations to ensure product integrity.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Knowledge of OSHA safety requirements.
• Good communication skills.
• Understanding of feed manufacturing and willingness to learn and grow.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Understanding of feed mill equipment and layout.
• Thorough understanding of cGMP’s and Mixing/Pelleting procedures
• Knowledge of HACCP Feed & Food Safety Plan.
• Knowledge of FSM
• Ability to work in dust and adverse weather conditions and temperatures