Aseptic Mixer

SunOpta Overview:

SunOpta Inc. is a leader in the plant-based foods and beverages, fruit-based foods and beverages, and organic ingredient sourcing industries.  SunOpta is focused on sustainability and specializes in the sourcing, processing, and packaging of organic, conventional, non-GMO food products.

SunOpta is looking for talented individuals that demonstrate our most valued behaviors: Passion, Dedication, Speed, Entrepreneurship, Customer-Centricity, and Problem-Solver, to help create a brighter, healthier, and sustainable future of food!

Job Summary:

This position is responsible for all functions relating to operating the mix blend equipment to include batching and blending of finished product as well as cleaning (CIP) and sanitizing.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Stage and prepare ingredients as outlined on mix batch sheets.
• Understands and effectively utilizes Tetra system automated controls to include system startup, continued production and CIP.
• Utilizing the Oracle production tools and wireless handheld computers to correctly issue and scan materials as they are consumed for production.  This includes returning materials after the production run is completed.
• In conjunction with the maintenance department perform routine maintenance on all process equipment. This includes but not limited to valves, pumps, O-rings gaskets etc.
• Performs a variety of quality and food safety checks to ensure standards and specifications are met (Brix, Bostwick, PH, Titratable acidity, Titrating of cleaning chemicals).
• Manage all functions related to cleaning and sanitizing the system and their work area.
• Perform and document all inspections of critical parameters as outlined by the official thermal process for each product.
• Trouble shoot and resolve basic to moderate operating issues involving processing and mixing equipment.
• Communicate to all other facility personnel regarding any delays or problems in the batching area that would hinder production.
• Must be able to perform basic math calculations as required during the entire batching process.  This includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, percentages, and ratios).
• Must follow all employee safety, food safety and quality procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s).
• Responsible for proper shift handoff with oncoming/ outgoing operators.
• All other duties as assigned.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Must wear all required PPE as required such as protective gloves, aprons, face shields and safety glasses.
• Leadership and ownership of the department, job responsibilities and job functions
• Manage all functions related to cleaning and sanitizing their work area, as per master cleaning schedule.
• Must be able to work independently as well as professionally with other team members.
• Complete all required production paperwork as required in a neat and professionally manner.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Forklift certification.
• Passing of background and drug screens.
• A desire to succeed and good work ethics are required.
• Excellent oral and written skills.
• High-energy, flexible, self-starter, hands on, comfortable with little or no administrative support.
•  Attention to detail.
• Team player with a sense of urgency and a self-accountability mentality.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least two years of blending/ batching experience preferably in food manufacturing. 
• Experience using internet sourcing techniques / sites.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associated degree or higher preferred; or two years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Preferably forklift experience.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Must possess the knowledge and understanding of basic math skills including weight calculations, averages, and percentages.
• Must be able to read and write in English.

Additional Considerations:

• Travel Expectation:  None as part of normal job requirements; but travel may occur per management due to training needs,
• Work Environment: 100% of work is performed in a manufacturing facility which is not climate controlled and may contain allergens.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift as least 50 lbs. consistently.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.