Machine Operator I Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Kalle USA is a market leader in the production of casings and nettings for the meat processing industry. In the US we employ more than 300 people at two locations, Illinois and California. For our plant in Gurnee, IL. we are looking for an Operator Level I.

The Operator Level I plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of production or processing equipment within a facility. This position is responsible for monitoring equipment performance, conducting routine inspections, and performing basic maintenance tasks to prevent downtime and maintain safety standards. The Operator Level I collaborates closely with team members and supervisors to identify and resolve operational issues promptly. This role requires adherence to established protocols and safety regulations to maintain a secure working environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Maintain clean and organized work areas, including equipment cleaning, tool storage, and removal of production waste.
• Ensure all equipment and work areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before starting production to prevent product contamination.
• Conduct pre-operation inspections to verify equipment functionality and identify any maintenance or safety concerns before use.
• Ensure availability of required materials, tools, and supplies to meet production schedules.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and safety protocols for each type of equipment.
• Work collaboratively with team members across shifts to meet production goals, new hire training and maintain workflow continuity.
• Properly load and set up shirr coated reels on shirring machine following SOP.
• Place finished goods in blue bin with liners.
• Respond to issues such as moisture deviations or shirring damage to maintain uninterrupted production.
• Properly set up, operate and adjust controls on coating line following SOP.
• Manage coating tablet including gelatin during operation.
• Able to communicate line to line regarding potential issues on the coating line.
• Able to manage the spice and gelatin controls output.
• Complete production documentation accurately; data entry to log production data: work orders, machine usage, material inputs, productivity targets.
• Verify that all materials match the specifications on the Work Order traveler and identification tags before use.
• Enter app rates in coating tablet.
• Accurately print labels and mark finish reels.
• Identify and address minor equipment issues such as material jams, misfeeds, or sensor obstructions.
• Reset equipment following standard operating procedures when safe to do so.
• Verify that safety guards, sensors, and interlocks are functioning before resuming operation.
• Check and correct product alignment or orientation issues during production runs.
• Notify maintenance or supervision immediately when problems exceed basic troubleshooting scope.
• Document issues, adjustments, and downtime events in production logs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: (The following qualifications can be acquired and demonstrated through experience, education and/or vocational training as noted or as appropriate.)

• High school diploma or equivalent desirable.
• One (1) plus years of related manufacturing experience
• Must have the ability to read, write, and comprehend written instructions and numbering.
• Must be able to calculate basic arithmetic, (i.e., add, subtract, multiply and divide).
• Knowledgeable in the metric system; length, mass, and volume.
• Knowledge in machinery skills: Ability to operate automated machines and equipment with accuracy.
• Computer competency: Must enter data into company’s system.
• Attendance: Must be punctual and reliable.