Company Background: Farmina is nature and science in perfect harmony. Our mission is to develop the best all-natural, nutritious, and scientifically validated food that dogs and cats will love. Farmina is an innovative Pet Nutrition Company focusing on servicing dog and cat pet parents to make the best personalized nutritional decisions for their pet's well-being while providing life changing solutions along the way.

We at Farmina firmly believe in our company motto: Happy pet. Happy you.

Position Purpose

The Lead Technician - Processing (Extrusion) 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.

• Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification in manufacturing, food processing, or related field preferred.
  • 3+ years of experience in extrusion or a similar processing environment, preferably in the food or pet food industry.
  • Previous experience in a leadership role, with strong knowledge of extrusion equipment and processes.
• Skills
  • Proficient in operating and troubleshooting extrusion equipment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, effective decisions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Coordination
  • Lead, 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.

Work Environment

This position involves working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to high temperatures, noise, heavy machinery, and moving mechanical parts. The Lead Technician - Processing (Extrusion) may be required to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Benefits

• 
  Comprehensive Benefits Package including Medical, Dental, Vision Benefits and much more.
• 
  90% Company Paid Employee Only Medical Plan Option
• 
  401K with Employer Matching Program
• 
  Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
• 
  Employee Discounts

This job description may not be inclusive of all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described, and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of the Employer.

Farmina is An Equal Opportunity Employer