Barcel USA takes pride in our people-centric culture - We Value the Person is our Core Belief. In addition to competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment that appreciates all dimensions of diversity, promotes personal and professional development opportunities and allows our associates to be their authentic selves.
The Process Operator is responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and compliant operation of production equipment within the production line. This role serves as a technical expert on the line, monitoring critical parameters to guarantee product quality and food safety while actively identifying opportunities to minimize waste. The ideal candidate possesses strong mechanical aptitude, a commitment to safety, and a focus on operational efficiency through waste reduction.
Responsibilities
Safety & Compliance
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Strictly adhere to all plant safety regulations, including the consistent wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and rigorous application of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.
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Actively identify, report, and assist in mitigating safety hazards or non-compliance issues within the process area to maintain a zero-incident workplace.
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Promote a proactive culture of safety by modeling best practices.
Quality Control
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Continuously monitor and validate critical process parameters—such as moisture levels, oil absorption, temperature, Free Fatty Acids (FFAs), and dough consistency—to ensure finished products meet internal and regulatory specifications.
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Perform regular quality checks and document results for key metrics, including water temperature, mixing time, dough moisture, moisture levels after oven/stabilizer, oil absorption (for fried products), final product texture (e.g., Takis texture)
- Collaborate closely with the Quality Assurance (QA) department to address non-conformances immediately and implement effective corrective actions to prevent product waste.
- Ensure full compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles, and FDA regulations at all times.
Equipment Operation & Maintenance
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Safely operate and monitor all processing equipment—including mixers, ovens, fryers, and stabilizers—in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
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Perform basic troubleshooting and make precise adjustments to machinery to minimize downtime, reduce scrap, and maintain product flow.
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Promptly report equipment malfunctions or unusual wear to the maintenance team and production supervisors.
Process Improvement & Documentation
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Accurately record all production data, equipment settings, and process deviations in the GB connected.
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Actively support 5S initiatives to ensure work areas remain clean, organized, and efficient, which directly contributes to waste reduction.
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Identify opportunities for process optimization (e.g., reducing ingredient waste, minimizing product giveaways, improving efficiency) and contribute ideas to continuous improvement projects.
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Maintain clear and effective communication by participating in production loops, including shift handovers.
Leadership & Collaboration
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Guide on daily tasks and managing complex operational scenarios, with an emphasis on efficiency and waste reduction.
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Work cross-functionally with Production Supervisors, QA, and Maintenance teams to resolve issues quickly and meet daily production targets without sacrificing quality or creating excess waste.
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Serve as a subject-matter expert (SME) for the process area, providing insight and guidance during audits, training sessions, and process changes.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
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High School Diploma or GED required.
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2+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in food processing.
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Previous experience operating industrial mixers, ovens, or fryers is highly preferred.
Skills & Competencies
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Strong understanding of GMP, HACCP, and food safety regulations.
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Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
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Demonstrated ability to identify and reduce waste in a production environment.
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Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating manuals, and SOPs.
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Proficiency in basic math and documentation skills.
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Ability to work in a team environment and lead by example.
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Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays, as required.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to stand for extended periods and walk long distances throughout the shift.
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Ability to work in varying temperatures (heat/cold) and around loud machinery.
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Must be able to lift up to [e.g., 50 lbs] and perform physical tasks such as bending, reaching, and climbing.
Barcel USA LLC is an equal opportunity employer with a policy that provides equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, disability, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other classification protected by law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, reassignment, layoff, discharge, education, training, and all other working conditions.
We believe diversity drives innovation and success. We proudly welcome applications from individuals with disabilities, veterans, and women, and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
