Production Operations Technician

Company Title: Recon Technician

Company Description: For over 50 years, Vivolac Cultures Corporation has prided itself on partnering with our customers to help create innovative food culture systems that meet their production needs. We research specific bacterial strains and combine them to create custom and standard cultures to be used in the manufacture of fermented products and probiotics. We invite you to explore the advanced world of fermented product design with us.

Role Overview: You will be responsible for the production of lactic acid bacterial cultures. Your specific functions include preparing media and cryoprotectants, heat treating media and cryoprotectants, inoculating media, monitoring fermentations, cleaning/sanitizing production equipment, and maintaining production and fermentation records.

Responsibilities

- Maintain knowledge of warehouse processes, including the proper handling, use, and storage

- Assist warehouse receiving and cleaning including the chemical room

- Stage materials for media blending and cryoprotectant production

- Verify the proper quantities of ingredients and materials to use and maintain accurate records

- Utilize the automation touch screens (HMIs) throughout the production areas to run various equipment

- Add ingredients into the powder mixer or mixing tank to reconstitute the media and cryoprotectants

- Ensure heat treatment Critical Control Point (CCP) parameters are met and recorded

- Load the correct recipes and steps into the plant automation

- Aseptically inoculate tanks to start the fermentation process and collect the required samples

- Clean/Sanitize all production tanks, lines, equipment, and utensils

- Manage cryoprotectant inventory and prepare/sterilize materials

- Display safe operating procedures, including using a forklift, wearing PPE, and adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)

- Display good analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills for troubleshooting

- Maintain Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards and report concerns to management

- Complete Master Sanitation Schedules with thoroughness and accurate documentation

- Maintain excellent attention to detail

- Contribute as a team player for all of production, including assisting other departments

Qualifications/Requirements

- High School diploma or equivalent

- Able to lift/carry up to 70 pounds repeatedly.

- Ability to respond with a high sense of urgency.

- Must be able to multitask and remain focused on several tasks at one time.

- Excellent time management and flexibility.

- Able to work in a standing position for extended periods.

Expected Scheduling: Sunday to Thursday, 6am-2:30pm with overtime as needed

Benefits:

- Paid Time Off (PTO)

- Paid Holidays

- Life Insurance

- Health Insurance

- Vision/Dental Insurance (Optional)

- Simple IRA Retirement Plan

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person