Production Operator

The Production Operator is the frontline team member responsible for the hands-on execution of meal assembly, cooking, chilling, and packaging operations in a fresh-chilled food manufacturing facility. This role performs critical tasks that directly impact food safety, quality, and efficiency while working in a fast-paced, refrigerated environment with time-sensitive products.

Core Responsibilities

1. Meal Assembly & Preparation

. Execute precise ingredient handling:
o Portion proteins, vegetables, starches, and sauces according to recipe specifications
o Assemble meal components into trays or containers with accuracy and consistency
o Follow build sheets and visual guides for correct meal configurations
o Maintain proper presentation and arrangement for consumer appeal

. Operate preparation equipment:
o Use dicers, slicers, and vegetable prep equipment safely
o Operate mixing and blending equipment for sauces and components
o Handle knives and cutting tools with proper safety protocols
o Clean and sanitize small tools between tasks

2. Cooking & Thermal Processing

. Monitor cooking processes:
o Load ingredients into steamers, ovens, or kettles according to procedures
o Monitor time and temperature controls during cooking
o Record cooking parameters on batch records
o Follow hold times and transfer procedures to prevent temperature abuse

. Execute batch processes:
o Follow recipes precisely for seasoning and ingredient combinations
o Maintain consistency across multiple batches
o Sample products for doneness and flavor (if trained and authorized)
o Transfer cooked products to cooling processes promptly

3. Chilling & Temperature Control

. Operate chilling equipment:
o Load hot products into blast chillers or spiral chillers correctly
o Monitor chill rates to ensure rapid cooling through danger zone (135F to 41F within required time)
o Verify final product temperatures before packaging
o Follow proper stacking and spacing for optimal airflow
. Maintain cold chain:
o Keep products under refrigeration at all times during handling
o Minimize time products spend in ambient temperatures
o Monitor and record product temperatures throughout process
o Report any temperature deviations immediately

4. Packaging Operations

. Operate packaging equipment:
o Run tray denesters, fillers, lid placers, and sealers
o Monitor seal integrity on modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)
o Operate checkweighers and metal detectors
o Apply labels and date codes accurately

. Perform quality checks:
o Visually inspect packages for defects, leaks, or contamination
o Verify correct labels, codes, and packaging materials
o Check weight and portion accuracy
o Remove and report non-conforming products

. Maintain packaging area:
o Keep packaging materials organized and contamination-free
o Perform minor adjustments and clearing of jams
o Conduct basic sanitation during production

5. Food Safety & Quality Compliance
. Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs):
o Wear proper uniform and PPE (hairnets, beard covers, gloves, smocks)
o Practice proper handwashing and hygiene
o No jewelry, false nails, or personal items in production areas
o Report any illness or symptoms to supervision

. Execute allergen controls:
o Follow color-coding systems for allergenic ingredients
o Participate in allergen changeover cleaning procedures
o Verify equipment is cleaned between allergen-containing products

. Maintain documentation:
o Complete batch records accurately and legibly
o Record temperatures, times, and quantities
o Document any deviations or issues
o Sign off on completed tasks

6. Safety & Sanitation

. Follow safety procedures:

o Use equipment guards and safety devices
o Follow lockout/tagout procedures during cleaning
o Use proper lifting techniques
o Report safety hazards immediately

. Perform sanitation tasks:

o Clean equipment and work areas during and after production
o Participate in allergen changeover cleans
o Follow proper chemical usage and storage
o Maintain 5S standards in work area

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

. Ability to read and follow detailed work instructions and recipes
. Basic math skills for measurements and counts
. Mechanical aptitude for equipment operation
. Hand-eye coordination for assembly tasks
. Multitasking ability in fast-paced environment

Food Manufacturing Knowledge

. Understanding of why food safety procedures matter
. Knowledge of temperature danger zone
. Awareness of allergen risks and controls
. Understanding of cross-contamination prevention
. Basic quality inspection skills