Utility Operator

This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.

Job Description

Job Title: Utility Operator
Location: O'Fallon, MO - AFB Facility
Shift: Monday through Friday, 9:45 PM - 6:15 AM
Training Period: 8 Weeks (Paid)

Position Summary:
We are hiring a skilled and dependable Utility Operator to support our overnight production operations at the O'Fallon AFB facility. This is a critical, hands-on role responsible for supporting various areas of the Manufacturing Plant, including Spray Drying, Liquid Processing, Shipping and Receiving, and General Operations.

The Utility Operator must be fully trained and experienced in all major production functions and will serve as a flexible resource for coverage, training, and process improvement. This role also plays a key part in maintaining SOPs and inventory accuracy across the department.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fill in for production roles across departments as needed due to breaks, absences, or emergencies
• Train new operators on equipment, procedures, and safety protocols
• Maintain and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Conduct inventory of raw materials, finished products, and production supplies
• Assist with batching, blending, spray drying, sanitation, and general operations
• Complete and verify manufacturing paperwork with accuracy
• Load and unload trucks and tankers as required
• Maintain clean and organized warehouse and production spaces
• Operate forklifts safely (training and certification provided if not already certified)

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED
• Proven experience in Spray Drying, Liquid Processing, Warehouse, and Shipping/Receiving
• Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and clean complex production equipment
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, sanitation, and safety practices
• Knowledge of handling hazardous chemicals in compliance with HAZCOM and MSDS
• Experience using or willingness to learn the IFS system (or other ERP systems)
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation and organizational skills
• Capable of working independently with minimal supervision
• Forklift operation experience preferred (or willingness to certify)

Physical and Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. regularly; occasionally up to 100 lbs. (with assistance)
• Must work in non-climate-controlled environments with potential exposure to dust, odors, and temperature extremes
• Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, steel-toed boots, etc.
• Exposure to cleaning chemicals and CIP procedures requiring caution and safe handling

Workplace Hazards and Expectations:

• Must consistently follow all safety guidelines and report potential hazards
• Responsible for maintaining high standards in product quality, documentation, and cleanliness
• May be exposed to chemical agents including hydrogen sulfide and sodium hydrosulfide if procedures are not properly followed
• High attention to accuracy and safety is critical to success in this role

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay with shift differential
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Paid training and career advancement opportunities
• A strong, team-oriented culture
• The opportunity to make a direct impact on quality and production efficiency

If you have the experience, reliability, and drive to support a high-performing manufacturing team, we encourage you to apply today!

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.