Batching / Blending Technician
Summary Description
Reporting to the Department Manager, the Batching/Blending Technician is responsible for handling ingredients, maintaining filters, and preparing product for bottling by mixing ingredients according to established quality procedures and SAP requirements. Supplies the production line with blended product in a timely manner and helps attain maximum product recovery.
Essential Job Functions
- Adhere to all health and safety policies/procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) while in warehouse or production areas.
- Adhere to food quality and food safety standards established by corporate requirements, customers, and governing bodies (e.g., SQF).
- Comply with FDA regulations, state and local regulations, quality policies, GMPs, HACCP, Allergen, Kosher, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
- Train and become certified in the operation of all batching/blending equipment within the assigned area of responsibility.
- Ensure the quality and integrity of products processed on production lines according to specifications to achieve customer satisfaction.
- Transport required ingredients and pre-weighed materials by forklift to and from designated areas.
- Verify all ingredients against SAP requirements, food safety standards, food quality standards, and inventory control parameters before conducting syrup batching.
- Program and operate bulk ingredient delivery systems.
- Follow batching/blending instructions, add proper ingredients, and accurately record amounts used.
- Obtain blend tank samples and deliver them to the quality laboratory for testing. Implement required adjustments to bring products into specification.
- Complete all required documentation for batching/blending operations and submit for review.
- Maintain sanitation and cleanliness of the work area throughout the shift.
- Perform CIP/COP sanitation of batching/blending lines, tanks, and equipment as scheduled.
- Remove empty barrels and bins from batching/blending areas to designated storage locations or trailers.
- Receive and unload bulk concentrate tankers as needed.
- Report all non-compliance, product protection, food safety, and personal safety issues to management when encountered.
Required Skills
- Experience in a high-speed beverage production environment preferred.
- Formal training in SAP, HACCP, GMP, Hygiene, or related areas preferred.
- Ability to routinely lift 50 lbs.
- Ability to perform effectively in a high-pressure environment.
- Strong mathematical skills, including measurements and formulas.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
- Solid understanding of production schedules and laboratory testing.
- Understanding of quality improvement, efficiency optimization, yield improvement, and waste reduction.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification.
Competencies
- Problem Solving: Ability to quickly identify and resolve operational issues.
- Technology: Basic computer skills for operating production software and recording data.
- Cognitive Skills: Ability to analyze data and process parameters to optimize production.
- Safety and Risk Management: Participation in safety audits and inspections to maintain a safe work environment.
Education and Experience
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- 1-2 years of relevant manufacturing experience preferred.
Working Conditions
- Work Schedule: Weekdays, weekends, afternoons, evenings, overnight shifts, holidays, and overtime as needed.
- Work Environment: Fast-paced production facility with moving equipment. Hearing protection may be required. Temperatures may vary from hot to cold depending on work area. Environment is structured and supervised.
Travel Requirements
Physical Requirements
- Frequent standing, sitting, walking, lifting, and carrying up to 50 lbs.
- Occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, forklift operation, and climbing stairs or ladders.
- Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
- Strong attention to detail and sensory awareness.
Other Duties
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities required of the employee. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.
