Production Machine Operator - Blue Buffalo

COMPANY OVERVIEW

We exist to make food the world loves. But we do more than that. Our company is a place that prioritizes being a force for good, a place to expand learning, explore new perspectives and reimagine new possibilities, every day. We look for people who want to bring their best — bold thinkers with big hearts who challenge one another and grow together. Because becoming the undisputed leader in food means surrounding ourselves with people who are hungry for what’s next.​

POSITION OVERVIEW

• Production Machine Operator
• Starting Pay: $21.89 per hour
• $1.00 per hour additional shift differential pay (7pm to 7am)
• 12-hour shifts | 3 on, 2 off, 2 on, 3 off schedule

Why Join Our Team

Located in historic Joplin, at our Joplin Pet manufacturing site we produce Blue Buffalo dog food, Sizzlers, Stix, Bits, Blue Bones and Wilderness Wild Bones dog treats. We foster a culture where we want our employees to be excited to come to work.  We have a variety of committees at our plant to engage and connect our employees.  Our Blue Rah committee hosts events throughout the year, as well as events for employees and their families.  We also partner with our local humane society for different events and volunteer work.

What We Have to Offer

• $21.89 per hour starting pay
• Up to $26.15 per hour (internal pay advancement)
• $1.00 per hour additional for hours worked between 7 pm and 7 am
• Up to 120 hours (10 days) vacation annually  
• 11 paid company holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Medical, dental, life insurance
• Career growth and cross-training opportunities

Your Work Schedule and Shift Information

• 12-hour shifts
  • Day shift: 6:45 am – 7:00 pm
  • Nigh shift: 6:45 pm – 7:00 am

• Currently hiring for Night Shift only
• 12-hour schedule: Work repeating 3 nights on, 2 nights off, 2 nights on, 3 nights off schedule
• Must be willing to work overtime, weekends, nights, and holidays as needed
• Plant operates 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

As part of our manufacturing team, you will:

• Be responsible for supporting production packaging and processing operations, sanitation and participation in startup, changeover and shutdown of operating equipment
• Troubleshoot problems with machinery and partner with maintenance staff to resolve issues
• Monitor and ensure proper batch formulas and batch procedures
• Be responsible for the inventory and handling of wet ingredients, dry ingredients and/or raw frozen meat
• Calibrate and monitor processing and packaging systems daily to meet required specifications
• Participate in startup, setup, changeover, and shut down of operating equipment
• Perform food safety checks and CCP monitoring activities as specified by HACCP
• Safely operator forklift to move material in a safe and efficient manner
• Participate in Continuous Improvement initiatives to increase platform performance
• Assist in training new employees

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to work rotating 12-hour shifts
• 2 years (minimum) experience in machine operation and/or mechanical/technical skillset
• Ability to obtain and maintain forklift and/or Powered Industrial Vehicle (PIV/POV) certification
• Must possess the ability to understand and effectively communicate with co-workers, supervisors, and others in the workplace regarding work matters (our business is generally conducted in English)
• Basic computer skills with the ability to use digital tools and systems to complete daily work tasks
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, push, pull, and twist for extended periods
• Willingness to work in hot, cold, noisy, wet, or dusty conditions
• Ability to climb and/or work at heights while utilizing stairs, ladders, personnel lifts, or platforms
• Ability to follow human and food safety, quality, and grooming standards
• Ability to wear such as protective clothing and equipment (Personal Protective Equipment -PPE) such as safety shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard/bump cap, hair/beard net, gloves, and face masks (when required)
• Ability to work around high-speed machinery and food allergens

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in a manufacturing/production environment

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must meet a minimum 18-year age qualification.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER (EOE)​

General Mills is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or familial status, status regarding public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission.

Check out why General Mills Manufacturing is a great place to grow a career:​