Patrick Spencer

Lead Processing Technician (Extrusion/DCC/Meat Grinding) is responsible for overseeing the extrusion process within the pet food manufacturing plant to ensure high-quality product output that meets company standards. This role involves operating and monitoring extrusion equipment, leading a team of processing operators, and troubleshooting equipment and process issues to optimize productivity, and minimize waste. The Lead Technician ensures that production and quality goals are met by maintaining an efficient extrusion process, following strict quality and safety protocols, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• 3rd Shift hours are Monday through Friday 10 PM to 6 AM, however, during the commissioning and training process, hours will be 6 PM to 2 AM and are subject to vary. Please get your schedule from your supervisor. There may be times where overtime and weekend work may be required.
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Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & CoordinationLead, train, and mentor a team of processing operators to ensure consistent, high-quality output and adherence to safety protocols.
  Assign tasks, monitor work performance, and ensure that team members understand and follow extrusion procedures and safety guidelines.
  Work closely with other departments to meet production schedules, optimize workflow, and reduce downtime.
• Extrusion Operations: Set up, operate, and adjust extrusion equipment to produce pet food products according to production specifications and quality standards.
  Monitor key process parameters (temperature, pressure, moisture levels) to ensure product consistency, proper texture, and desired specifications.
  Perform in-process quality checks, document findings, and adjust process settings to maintain product quality.
• Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Conduct routine inspections, and perform preventive maintenance on extrusion equipment to ensure reliable operation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor equipment malfunctions, and collaborate with the maintenance team for complex repairs.
• Record maintenance activities, process adjustments, and downtime events in compliance with company policies.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure that all extrusion processes comply with company standards, FDA regulations, and HACCP protocols to produce safe, high-quality pet food products.
• Conduct regular quality control checks on products, documenting results, and adjusting as necessary to address quality issues.
• Follow and enforce all plant safety and sanitation requirements to maintain a safe working environment.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to increase production efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize product quality.
  Contribute to process improvement projects, and provide input on extrusion techniques, materials, and equipment.
• Complied with food safety, hygiene and sanitation

regulations for safe food preparation.

• Oversee meat grinding to prepare frozen meat for extrusion process.
• Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Mitigated risk of cross-contamination by strictly adhering to company guidelines on separation protocols for different types of meats.
• Supported efficient workflow by promptly identifying equipment malfunctions and facilitating quick repairs or replacements as needed.

• Performed troubleshooting and diagnosis on malfunctioning equipment.
• Monitored and enforced safety measures to mitigate hazards.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives within the department.
• Optimized workflow for enhanced productivity by streamlining processes and providing technical guidance to team members.
• Reduced equipment downtime, proactively identifying potential failures, and implementing preventive measures.
• Recognized as a top performer among peers due to outstanding productivity levels, and commitment to excellence.
• Adhered to established policies and standards to safely complete projects.
• Conducted quality inspections of completed work, ensuring compliance with established standards and specifications.

• Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
• Moved finished work to correct staging area for disposition.
• Monitored machines during operation to make adjustments when necessary and produce quality parts.
• Completed projects within tight deadlines by prioritizing tasks strategically and working efficiently under pressure.
• Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new software programs for advanced CNC machine operation.
• Enhanced project efficiency by providing timely feedback to the coating team regarding defects and inconsistencies.
• Increased project success rate with meticulous attention to detail in mixing, measuring, and applying various coating materials.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize coating processes, ensuring higher customer satisfaction.
• Verified incoming products and checked delivery totals to keep system records current and accurate.
• Maintained accurate inventory records, ensuring timely replenishment of stock and preventing product shortages.
• Packaged goods in safe containers to prepare for shipping, adhering to packaging protocols.
• Reduced shipping errors through meticulous inspection of outgoing packages and double-checking labels.
• Conducted thorough audits of received merchandise against purchase orders to identify variances in quantity or quality quickly.
• Processed invoices and order forms for goods received and shipped for proof of transactions.
• Used pallet jacks and dollies to load and unloaded goods from trucks and containers.
• Provided guidance on corrective action plans addressing non-compliance issues identified during audits.
• Reviewed supplier qualifications, ensuring alignment with company objectives and ISO standards.
• Spearheaded internal audits to maintain compliance with industry regulations and certifications such as ISO 9001 or AS9100 standards.
• Played an integral role in securing ISO 9001 certification by diligently adhering to strict guidelines and maintaining proper documentation.

• Promoted sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect among players both on and off the court.
• Managed drills and fitness circuits to bolster athletes' coordination and performance levels.
• Developed and implemented effective training and skills development strategies to improve overall team performance.
• Acted as positive role model for team participants and in community.
• Created opportunities for players to develop leadership skills through team captain roles or mentoring younger teammates.
• Collaborated with school administration to ensure adherence to academic requirements for student athletes.
• Promoted community-focused team image, leading to increased attendance at games and events.

• Managed day-to-day business operations.
• Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• Overseeing inventory management, reducing waste and maintaining adequate stock levels to meet demand.
• Developed and implemented successful marketing strategies, resulting in increased brand awareness and customer base.
• Increased store profitability by implementing cost-saving initiatives in the Bakery Department.
• Maintained strict adherence to food safety guidelines to ensure the highest quality products were provided to customers.
• Optimized the bakery''s workflow by regularly evaluating and updating equipment and processes, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction by ensuring timely and efficient completion of bakery orders.
• Maintained cleanliness and hygiene in bakery premises.
• Established and maintained relationships with suppliers to procure quality ingredients and equipment.
• Arranged bakery displays to showcase baked goods, cakes, and pies to drive product sales.

• Properly loaded and unloaded materials in and out of machines.
• Learned and followed safety procedures to keep machines operated safely and prevent accidents.
• Monitored machines during operation to make adjustments when necessary and produce quality parts.
• Improved workplace safety, conducting regular inspections and promptly addressing any hazards or mechanical issues.
• Increased production efficiency by closely studying blueprints for accurate machine programming.
• Maintained tight tolerances with design specifications.
• Served as a reliable resource for colleagues seeking guidance on CNC programming or machine setup challenges.
• Adapted quickly to changes in project specifications, adjusting programs or setups as needed for successful execution.

• Enhanced product quality by meticulously assembling lighting components following detailed instructions.
• Followed detailed assembly instructions, processes, and procedures.
• Proactively addressed potential bottlenecks in the assembly line, ensuring smooth operations at all times.
• Minimized risk of fire or electrical shock by using optimal safety procedures.
• Assisted in reducing waste by identifying reusable materials during the disassembly process for refurbishment projects.