The Extraction Process Operator is a self-driven/self-motivated individual capable of working proficiently, both independently and as part of a team.  The successful individual must have a passion for safety and be able to foster effective working relationships built upon trust and respect within all levels of the organization. This position safely and efficiently operates assigned equipment to produce quality products at prescribed standards while minimizing material waste and product loss. The position oversees and actively participates in all aspects of product production.  The extraction process operator must maintain a thorough knowledge of the operating systems.

Job Summary

At Danone, Manufacturing the best products and supplying them to meet demand is a key driver for our plant teams.  We are currently looking to hire an Extraction Process Operator based in Mt. Crawford, Virginia!  

Key Responsibilities

As a key member of our team, you will play an important role in driving our mission forward. The following responsibilities outline the core expectations and contributions for this position:

• Ensure adherence to plant standards (including but not limited to GMP, AIB, FDA, IWS, Quality, Safety, Finance, ISO, CODES, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE). As a fundamental piece of the organization, your responsibility is to participate in and own the implementation and deployment of IWS or related integrated work systems and corresponding pillars (Leadership foundation, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE; Autonomous Maintenance; planned Maintenance; Focused Improvement; Education and Training; Environmental, Health and Safety; Quality; Organization; Supply Network; Early Equipment Management) with the objective of owning your space, owning your performance (Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Mobilization, Nature) and owning your continuous improvement.  
• Ensure all paperwork is filled out in a clear, legible and accurate format and completed with all required information
• Ensure clean and inspect standards are up to date and completed in a timely manner

• Ensure constant attention to the processing system(s) and the processing room
• Maintain the processing, warehouse, Okara, and tanker loadout areas in a clean and sanitary manner
• Responsible for operation of all processing equipment
• Keep a running inventory of the Okara storage trucks
• Monitor all Soymilk parameters via Lab testing and adjust the process system to maintain those proper Soymilk parameters
• Assist with the Master Sanitation schedule as dictated by the schedule
• Cleaning of all processing equipment, as required
• Cleaning of all Soymilk storage tanks and lines, as required
• Ability to transfer Soymilk to the packaging plant
• Ability to load out tankers using proper procedures
• Ability to unload Bean trucks
• Supply a constant stream of Soybeans to the processing area
• Watch and maintain the Wastewater system
• Communicate effectively with leadership or management and maintenance personnel regarding recurring problems and needs for repair
• Maintain communication with other departments, management and employees and notify them of any problems and/or concerns
• Contribute to a continuous improvement mindset, actively participate in identifying and correcting opportunities to improve processes including participation in the creation and documentation of Standard Operating Procedures and Work Instructions, the creation and maintenance of preventative maintenance standards, the writing of One Point Lessons, and participation in continuous improvement methodology events
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices and 5S methodology to maintain a clean, sanitary and safe work area, maintaining audit ready status at all times
• Actively participate in Pillar activities (i.e. Quality, Focused Improvement, Safety, etc.) including but not limited to observations, inspections, and recommendations.
• Assist, train, and coach employees
• Supports plant production needs and priorities to achieve plant goals
• Facilitate, attend and participate in team meetings and programs
• Follows all Safety policies and procedures
• Comply with all policies and procedures
• All other duties as assigned or become evident

Work Environment 

Work is performed throughout the facility. Potential hazards include proximity of moving machinery, chemical exposure, noise, and heavy lifting. The position may require an individual to stand, stoop, move equipment; bend, reach, or lift for prolonged periods of time. Personal protective equipment includes safety glasses, hearing protection and slip resistant steel toed shoes.

Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs, balance; stoop, kneel or crouch; talk and hear. The employee will lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Engagement in our Integrated Work Systems

Ensure adherence to plant standards and procedures (including but not limited to GMP, AIB, FDA, IWS, Quality, Safety, Finance, ISO, HOPE, Danone Behaviors, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE). As a fundamental piece of the organization, your responsibility is to participate and own the implementation and deployment of IWS system and its pillars (Leadership foundation, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE; Autonomous Maintenance; planned Maintenance; Focused Improvement; Education and Training; Environmental, Health and Safety; Quality; Organization; Supply Network; Early Equipment Management) with the objective of owning your space, owning your performance (Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Mobilization, Nature) and owning your continuous improvement.    

Compensation & Benefits:

Danone North America additionally offers a performance-based bonus and has a strong benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, 401k Plan, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Time Off, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave, among other benefit plan options.