South Valley Almond Company is seeking a Machine Operator II to join our local processing team!

Summary:

The Machine Operator II is a skilled equipment operator responsible for independently running standard production equipment, performing intermediate troubleshooting, completing changeovers, and supporting line performance. This role works with moderate supervision, using developing mechanical and technical skills to maintain safe, efficient, and high-quality production.

Responsibilities:

Independently operate assigned equipment following established procedures. Perform intermediate troubleshooting and equipment adjustments to maintain line performance. Conduct and document quality checks; escalate issues when needed. Complete equipment setups and basic to moderate changeovers; assist with startups/shutdowns. Perform routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning, lubrication, and minor corrections. Support Maintenance staff by providing accurate information for work orders. Help onboard and mentor other operators. Track production counts, downtime, and efficiency; communicate material needs; support continuous improvement. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

High school or equivalent. 2+ years of experience operating production or processing equipment in a manufacturing environment. Solid mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform basic troubleshooting and equipment adjustments. Familiarity with machine interfaces, basic computer use, and production documentation systems. Strong understanding of SOPs, GMPs, and foundational food safety practices. Effective communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Ability to accurately record production, quality, and downtime information. Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification if required. Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

Preferred:

Experience in a food processing or high regulation environment. Experience supporting equipment setups, calibrations, or more complex changeovers. Familiarity with multiple types of production equipment.

Working conditions:

Essential:

The physical demands below describe what is generally required to perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. Regularly lift, carry, push, and/or move items weighing up to 50 pounds, including raw materials, finished products, tools, or equipment. Perform work that involves prolonged standing and walking, with occasional sitting depending on task requirements. Frequently use hands and fingers to operate machinery, tools, conveyors, controls, and other processing equipment. Occasionally position self to access equipment, materials, or work areas, including reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, or crawling. Communicate clearly to follow instructions and report problems or safety concerns. Have adequate vision to safely perform job duties, including near and distance vision, color recognition, depth perception, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The work environment below describes conditions the employee may encounter while performing this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made when appropriate. Work is performed primarily in a plant environment, with occasional exposure to office settings as job duties require. The role involves frequent interaction with moving mechanical components, including conveyors, processing equipment, and industrial machinery. Employees may regularly encounter wet or slippery surfaces, dust, and fluctuating temperatures, including hot and cold conditions typical of agricultural processing facilities. Occasional work at heights or in confined or elevated locations may be required, with potential exposure to electrical or mechanical hazards. Periodic exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and hazardous chemicals used in processing, cleaning, or maintenance activities. Noise levels are often high and may require the use of hearing protection. Work hours may vary based on and may include day, night, weekend, holiday, or extended shifts to support continuous operations. Travel by vehicle may be required for other company facilities, suppliers, or operational sites. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hard hats, safety footwear, hearing protection, and protective clothing will be provided in accordance with applicable laws and company policy. Employees are required to wear designated PPE when tasks or work areas require it; compliance with PPE requirements is mandatory. AgReserves, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Qualified applicants must be legally and lawfully authorized to be employed and work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship - AgReserves, Inc. is not sponsoring visas at this time. AgReserves offers medical, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance coverage. Additionally, employees can contribute to an FSA, and to an employer matched 401(K). Employees can apply for Tuition Assistance for continuing education purposes. All full-time employees are eligible to participate in a discretionary profit-sharing bonus. For more detailed information please visit our benefits site: www.agreserves.com/benefits . AgReserves, Inc. complies with the current state minimum wage laws for all positions, regardless of the pay ranges posted.