JOB TITLE
Production Operator
- This is a union position, affiliated with Teamsters Local 231
LOCATION:
Sumas, WA SHIFT:
2nd/
Swing Shift WAGE:
The current base wage is $29.00/hr with opportunity to earn certification premiums of up to $3.00/hr after completing designated on-the-job certifications. (Subject to final approval and ratification of the proposed Collective Bargaining Agreement, the base wage is expected to increase to $29.87 per hour effective December 1, 2026.)
Note:
Under the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement, an introductory employee who has no prior feed mill industry experience will receive a base wage $2.00 per hour below the full base rate during the first year of employment and $1.00 per hour below the full base rate during the second year of employment. The full base wage rate applies beginning in the third year of employment.
BENEFITS AND OTHER COMPENSATION
Benefits include 100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for individuals, spouses, and dependents, paid holidays, vacation time accrual, 401k retirement plan with up to 6% company match, and more. Benefits and other compensation are provided in accordance with the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement and employer benefit plan documents. Eligibility and benefit terms are governed by those documents.
DESCRIPTION
The Production Operator supports daily feed manufacturing operations across mixing and pelleting, receiving and bulk loading, and warehouse and bagging functions. Based on production requirements, this position may be assigned to any of these areas. The Production Operator is responsible for handling feed ingredients and finished products safely, accurately, and in accordance with established procedures, maintaining plant cleanliness and organization, and supporting other team members as needed.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties listed below describe the essential functions of the position. Employees must be able to perform these functions, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work assignments may vary based on production, staffing, training, and operational needs.
- Reports to the Plant Manager or the designated Production Supervisor.
- Maintain clear and consistent communication with the Plant Manager and Production Supervisor regarding production priorities, safety concerns, equipment issues, and workflow needs.
- Review the mixing board daily and premix, mix, and pellet products in accordance with approved mixing sheets.
- Rotate micro-area ingredients, maintain control of micro-ingredient inventory, and keep the micro and mixing areas organized.
- Maintain working knowledge of incoming and outgoing feed ingredients.
- Assist with loading and unloading bulk and bagged-product off trucks and unloading incoming railroad cars.
- Review bag orders daily and prepare required products in bags, totes, or bulk feed.
- Maintain accurate warehouse inventory and keep the warehouse clean, orderly, and organized.
- Inspect incoming products, collect and retain samples for the required period, and place designated samples in the appropriate area for shipment to the laboratory.
- Keep receiving and shipping areas clean, orderly, and organized.
- Assist with loading bulk feed products in accordance with established procedures.
- Perform housekeeping duties as assigned.
- Assist with monthly inventory activities.
- Immediately report unsafe conditions, unsafe acts, and mechanical problems.
- Complete all required training and comply with EPL Feed Quality Management System requirements.
- Complete all employer-required training and obtain authorization before operating forklifts, Bobcat equipment, Genie lifts, or other assigned powered equipment.
- Comply with all EPL Feed personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety rules, and applicable regulations.
- Wear appropriate work attire, including work boots and work clothing/coveralls.
- Comply with company attendance standards and the Code of Conduct.
- Perform other relevant or related duties as assigned by the Plant Manager or Production Supervisor as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Successful completion and passing of a pre-employment drug screening.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Consistent adherence to appropriate personal hygiene standards.
- Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
- Professional, positive, and dependable approach to work.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and basic mathematics skills.
- Prior manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Ability to climb ladders and stairs.
- Ability to lift 55 lbs. without assistance.
- Ability to work in both hot and cold environments with some exposure to varying weather conditions.
Equal Employment Opportunity and Accommodations:
EPL Feed is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any status protected by applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities during the application process and in performing the essential functions of the position.
Pay:
$29.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) matching Health insurance Paid time off
Work Location:
In person