Production Operator

Job Purpose

The Production Operator is a structured, cross-functional development role. The role provides progressive, hands-on training across utility operations, pellet mill basic operations, selected control room functions, and the quality laboratory. Employees build transferable technical, quality, operating, and problem-solving skills while gaining experience that supports informed career-development decisions.

Core Responsibilities

• Follow all safety procedures, environmental requirements, operating standards, standard work, and job-specific safe work practices.
• Complete assigned training, certifications, observations, demonstrations, assessments, and required documentation within the established progression plan.
• Perform qualified Utility Operator work, including inspections, housekeeping, cleaning, basic preventive maintenance support, and authorized mobile-equipment operation.
• Monitor assigned equipment and processes; recognize and promptly escalate safety, quality, production, or equipment concerns.
• Complete logs, checklists, test results, inspection records, and training documentation accurately and on time.
• Work collaboratively with Utility, Pellet Mill, Control Room, Quality, Maintenance, and plant leadership personnel during cross-training assignments.
• Provide operational support only in areas for which the employee has been trained, qualified, and authorized.
• Level 1: Complete all Utility certifications and train in Level 1 of the Pellet Mill Basic Operations certification.
• Level 2: Complete the selected Level 1 Control Room certifications identified by the site based on operational needs.
• Level 3: Complete the Quality Technician Level 1 certification, including required sampling, testing, documentation, laboratory housekeeping, and escalation practices.

Required Qualifications

• Current internal employee who meets site eligibility requirements for movement from Utility Operator into the Production Operator pathway.
• Ability and willingness to complete the required Utility, pellet mill, selected control room, and quality laboratory certifications.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions, safety rules, operating procedures, standard work, and training materials.
• Basic computer and math skills, including accurate data entry and interpretation of basic measurements and operating information.
• Demonstrated commitment to safe work practices, dependable attendance, teamwork, timely communication, and accountability for progression.
• Ability to learn across multiple technical areas, apply coaching and feedback, and work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications - What Will Set Them Apart

• High school diploma or GED.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience operating industrial or mobile equipment.
• Experience in wood products, pellet manufacturing, process manufacturing, quality testing, or control room operations.
• Experience using electronic systems, spreadsheets, databases, HMIs, or production reporting tools.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, learning agility, and interest in cross-functional career development.

Working Conditions

• Work in indoor and outdoor industrial environments that may be hot, humid, cold, dusty, and noisy, including temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit and below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Follow all safety rules and personal protective equipment requirements while working around moving machinery, on uneven surfaces, at elevated heights, on steel grating, around conveyors, and in confined spaces when properly trained.
• Work shifts up to 12 hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating schedules, with assignments in operating areas, the control room, and the quality laboratory.

Physical Requirements

• Perform lifting, walking, climbing, stooping, standing, pushing, crawling, and pulling activities for up to 12 hours per shift.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds and climb stairs, ladders, and elevated work areas as required for assigned and qualified duties.
• Use computer screens, control interfaces, and laboratory equipment for extended periods during applicable training assignments.
• Safely perform the essential job functions consistent with applicable federal, state, and local standards and approved workplace accommodations.

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel may be required for training or other work-related assignments, but regular travel is not expected.