JOB TITLE: PROCESS OPERATOR (OAT EXTRACTION) - Nights C and D Shifts
FSLA STATUS: NON-EXEMPT
DEPARTMENT: PROCESSING
REPORTS TO: PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR
SunOpta Overview:
SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is a U.S.-based, global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based food and beverages. Founded nearly 50 years ago, SunOpta manufactures organic and specialty products sold through retail and foodservice channels. SunOpta operates as a manufacturer for leading natural and private label brands, and also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN, Dream and West LifeTM.
Job Summary:
This position is responsible for all functions relating to operating the processing equipment in oat extraction, as well as cleaning (CIP) and sanitizing.
Essential Functions of the Job:
- Coordinate all function-related to cleaning (CIP), sterilizing, and operating the Tetra VTIS and supporting systems, while maximizing the quality of the product and efficiency of the department.
- Works in conjunction with the mix blend and filling departments to best coordinate plant production efforts.
- Performs light maintenance as needed (e.g., replacing gaskets) and completes work orders for needed parts.
- Full ownership of required quality checks to assure standards are met.
- Relieve other production team members for absences as required.
- Maintain clean and organized area around equipment.
- Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment.
- Complete inspections of all critical parameters.
- Understand the continuous process flow of the aseptic system.
- Must be able to work independently as well as professionally with all other team members.
- Completes all required paperwork in a neat and professional manner.
- Proficient and comfortable using a computer.
- Performs a variety of quality and food safety checks to ensure standards and specifications are met.
- Communicate to all other facility personnel regarding any delays or problems that would hinder production.
- Must follow all employee safety, food safety and quality procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
- Responsible for proper shift handoff with incoming/outgoing operators.
- Must wear all required PPE, such as protective gloves, aprons, face shields and safety glasses.
- Leadership and ownership of the department, job responsibilities and job function.
- All other duties, as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Forklift certification.
- A desire to succeed and good work ethic.
- Excellent oral and written communication 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.
Level I Qualifications:
- Must learn all the above essential duties.
Level II Qualifications:
- Must be able to train new people in the position on Processor 1, 2 and/or 3.
Level III Qualifications:
- Must be an SME (Subject Matter Expert) in Filling and Mixing as it relates to Processing.
- Ability to swab processors.
Knowledge and Skills:
- Candidate 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.
- Location: This position will be at the SunOpta Plant in Modesto, CA in Oat Extraction.
- Work Environment: Approximately 100% of the work is performed in a manufacturing environment.
- Physical Demands: Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, climb stairs and stand for long periods of time.
- SHIFT: Night Shift on a 2-2-3 pattern. 6 pm to 6:30 am.
- Flexibility and overtime may be required as part of this role.
- Pay Rate: This role starts at $26.50/hour.
- Shift Differential: There is a $2.00/hour night shift differential offered for working the 12-hour overnight shift.
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.
SunOpta
Jul 03, 2025