Spray Dryer Operator

AFB International • O'Fallon, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people. Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide. Job Description We are looking for a dedicated and skilled Spray Dry Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for operating spray drying equipment to convert liquid food flavors into high-quality powdered products. The ideal candidate will have experience with industrial processing equipment, strong attention to quality and safety, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment.

Requirements

• Familiar with spray drying, pumping, and filling equipment. Able to set up, operate, and maintain equipment safely.
• Certified to operate electric and hydraulic forklifts.
• Knowledge of food manufacturing processes preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to resolve and troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Basic literacy and math skills to handle clerical work, including accurate counting, recording weights, and data entry. Ability to read and follow process specifications and temperature controls.
• Basic computer proficiency and knowledge of IFS system.
• Must be trained in handling hazardous chemicals and follow all safety procedures.
• High attention to detail and strong focus is required to ensure customer orders are completed correctly.
• Must be able to lift 50-80 pounds and handle materials such as bags and supersacks. Dexterity is required for sealing and palletizing bags. Able to stand for extended periods of time and perform repetitive motions.
• Regular exposure to disagreeable odors, dust, and temperature extremes in an un-air-conditioned facility. Must wear the provided PPE (steel-toed boots, gloves, safety glasses, etc.).
• Some eye strain may occur when performing clerical tasks, but the work is performed in a well-lit area.
• Exposure to chemical fumes, acidic, and caustic agents during cleaning processes.
• Risk of strain from lifting and moving materials.
• High attention to detail is required for accurate blending and filling to ensure customer orders are completed correctly.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment used in the spray dry process to convert liquid flavors into powdered products, including pumps, bulk filling equipment, bagging systems, and automated control systems.
• Oversee flow of materials from liquid processing through dry super sacks and final packaging.
• Accurately record production data and maintain documentation.
• Take samples of dry ingredients and finished products as part of in-process quality control to ensure consistency and meet customer specifications.
• Safely operate forklifts, and other handling equipment.
• Disassemble and reassemble machinery for sanitation and clean-up on a daily and weekly basis.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to prevent contamination and damage.
• Ensure knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Assist other departments as needed and communicate the status of the process to the Manufacturing Supervisor to maintain batch integrity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed