Machine Operator - First Shift - New Oxford

New Oxford Facility- Job DescriptionJob Title: Machine OperatorDepartment: Soup 190, Entrée 340Reports To: Senior Supervisor / Supervisor and takes direction from Area LeadsFLSA Status: Non-ExemptEmployment Type: Full-TimeDate: February 10, 2026Author: Laurence R. Etchison, SPHR, Human Resources Business Partner- Manager

Position SummaryThe Machine Operator is responsible for the safe operation, monitoring, and sanitation of food processing machinery in compliance with OSHA machine safety and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) standards under 29 CFR 1910.147, food safety regulations, and company procedures. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Essential FunctionsThe following duties are essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these functions:Machine Operation & Production

Set up, operate, monitor, and shut down food processing machinery in accordance with SOPsLoad raw materials and remove finished products while maintaining production and quality standardsAdjust machine settings within authorized parameters to ensure product specificationsMonitor machine performance, product flow, and safety indicators throughout the shift

Machine Safety & Lockout/Tagout (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147)

Comply with the company's written Energy Control ProgramPerform lockout/tagout procedures before clearing jams, performing equipment cleaning beyond normal operation, maintenance, or servicing activitiesApply and remove personal lock(s) and tag(s) in accordance with authorized employee trainingVerify zero energy state prior to beginning LOTO-covered workNever bypass, disable, or remove machine guards, interlocks, or safety devicesImmediately report damaged guards, missing devices, or LOTO concerns

Training & Authorization (LOTO-Specific)

Complete OSHA-compliant LOTO training appropriate to assigned role (authorized, affected, or other employee) prior to performing LOTO activitiesDemonstrate understanding of:

Types and magnitudes of hazardous energyEnergy isolation and control methodsProper application, verification, and removal of LOTO devices

Participate in periodic refresher training and annual LOTO audits as requiredComply with retraining requirements following equipment changes, incidents, or observed deficiencies

Quality & Food Safety

Follow GMP, HACCP, sanitation, and allergen control requirementsPerform in-process quality checks and accurately complete required documentationPrevent product contamination during operation, cleaning, and changeovers

Sanitation & Housekeeping

Clean and sanitize machinery and work areas per sanitation SOPsSupport allergen changeovers and pre-operational inspectionsMaintain an organized, safe, and sanitary workstation

Documentation & Communication

Complete production, downtime, sanitation, and LOTO documentation accuratelyCommunicate equipment issues, safety concerns, or deviations to supervision immediately

Attendance & Reliability

Maintain regular and predictable attendanceWork assigned schedules, including overtime, weekends, or holidays as required

Marginal (Non-Essential) Functions

Assist with training new operatorsSupport continuous improvement initiativesPerform other production-related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Ability to follow SOPs, safety rules, and quality requirementsAbility to safely operate machinery after completing required trainingAbility to comply with OSHA machine safety and LOTO standards

Preferred Qualifications

High school diploma or GEDPrior experience operating food processing or industrial manufacturing equipmentBasic mechanical aptitude or troubleshooting experience

Physical Demands (ADA-Compliant)The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8-12 hours per shift)Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodationFrequent bending, reaching, grasping, and repetitive hand motionsAbility to operate machine controls, touchscreens, levers, and emergency stopsAbility to visually verify machine status and energy isolation indicatorsAbility to communicate effectively in a production environment

Work Environment

Food processing or manufacturing facilityExposure to powered machinery, conveyors, and mechanical systemsTemperature variations, noise, steam, dust, or vibrationPossible exposure to food allergensPPE required, including gloves, hair restraints, protective clothing, hearing protection, and safety footwear

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) StatementSandridge Crafted Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

ADA / Reasonable Accommodation StatementSandridge Crafted Foods complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws. Qualified individuals with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations to enable them to perform the essential functions of this position.