Machine Operator

Red River Commodities is a leading processor of sunflower seeds and specialty grains, specializing in high-quality, nutritious food products. We pride ourselves on our sustainable practices, innovation, and commitment to delivering superior products to our customers. Our team shares core values focused on quality, innovation, responsibility, and community. We work hard, play harder, embrace authenticity, and always support one another to achieve our goals.

Location: 11505 38th St N, Fargo, ND 58047

Position Summary

The Technical Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated packaging lines. This role ensures consistent product quality, efficient line performance, and strict adherence to food safety standards. The Technical Machine operator will perform equipment setup, changeovers, troubleshooting, and routine quality and sanitation tasks while working closely with production, maintenance, and quality teams.

Key Responsibilities

Line Operation and Setup

• Set up automated packaging line, film, and sealing equipment according to production schedules and product specifications.
• Perform line changeovers, including adjustments for necessary packaging films, fill weights, and labeling requirements.
• Start, operate, and shut down machinery following established SOPs.

Monitoring and Quality Assurance

• Monitor fill weights, torque levels, seal integrity, and overall packaging quality throughout the production run.
• Conduct visual inspections of bags, labels, and packaging materials to ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.
• Document production data, lot numbers, and quality checks in real time.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

• Identify and resolve minor mechanical, pneumatic, or sensor-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance on packaging line components.
• Communicate with equipment issues requiring advanced repair to maintenance or engineering teams.

Food Safety and Compliance

• Follow all GMPs, HACCP guidelines, allergen-control procedures, and sanitation protocols specific to sunflower butter production.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and contamination-free work area.
• Ensure proper handling of food-grade materials and packaging components.

Collaboration and Communication

• Coordinate with quality assurance to address deviations, foreign material concerns, or packaging defects.
• Work with production leads to optimize line efficiency and reduce waste.
• Assist in training new operators on equipment operation, safety, and sanitation procedures.

Qualifications

• Experience operating automated machinery in a food manufacturing or packaging environment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot line issues.
• Ability to read production schedules, SOPs, and equipment manuals.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety.
• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Skills

• Mechanical troubleshooting.
• Line setup and changeovers.
• Quality inspection and documentation.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation.
• Basic computer/HMI operation.
• Strong communication and teamwork.
• Time management in fast-paced production environments.

Work Environment and Conditions

• Work is performed in a food production and packaging environment with exposure to automated equipment, noise, food ingredients, and varying temperatures.
• The position requires standing for extended periods, repetitive movement, and lifting 40 to 50 pounds.
• Required personal protective equipment must be worn, and allergen-control, sanitation, GMP, and HACCP procedures must be followed.
• Overtime, weekend, holiday, or varying shift work may be required based on production schedules.

Company Benefits:

At Red River Commodities, we value our employees and are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. As a member of our team, you will enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for career growth and development. Below are some additional benefits that we offer.

• On-demand pay available through Tapcheck
• Paid time off
• Paid Holidays
• 401k & company match
• Profit Sharing
• Employee Assistance Program

Red River Commodities and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all employment practices within our organization. Red River Commodities makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

We are committed to maintaining a legal and compliant workplace. As part of our hiring process, Red River Commodities participates in the E-Verify program.