1st Shift Mixer Operator at Urban Farmer LLC – Manteno, Illinois

Job Summary:

Ingredient Preparation & Scaling

• Review recipe sheets and gather required ingredients for assigned batches.
• Accurately weigh and measure dry and liquid ingredients using scales and metering tools.
• Verify ingredient lot codes, expiration dates, and quantities before adding them to the mixer.
• Stage ingredients in the correct order according to formula requirements.

Mixing Operations

• Load ingredients into mixers following the proper sequence and mixing procedures.
• Operate industrial mixers, water meters, and controls safely and efficiently.
• Monitor dough during mixing to ensure proper consistency, hydration, and development.
• Assist in adjusting mix speeds, times, or ingredient additions under direction of the Master Mixer.
• Discharge completed dough batches into troughs or hoppers as directed.

Quality Control

• Perform basic quality checks such as dough temperature, texture, and visual assessment.
• Confirm each batch meets required specifications before releasing it to production.
• Immediately report any ingredient issues, dough inconsistencies, or equipment problems to the Master Mixer or Supervisor.

Documentation & Recordkeeping

• Accurately complete batch sheets, mixer logs, and lot tracking forms for each blend.
• Record ingredient weights, dough temperatures, times, and any deviations or corrections.
• Enter data into tablets or digital systems as required.

Sanitation & GMP Compliance

• Maintain a clean work area by removing ingredient spills, wiping equipment, and keeping tools organized.
• Follow all GMPs, including proper PPE, handwashing, allergen controls, and sanitation requirements.
• Assist with mixer cleaning during changeovers and at shift end as required.
• Ensure mixing tools, scales, and equipment remain free of debris or contamination.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA guidelines, and equipment safety procedures.
• Use correct lifting techniques when handling bags, totes, buckets, and heavy ingredients.
• Stay alert to moving equipment, mixers, and pinch-point hazards.
• Report any unsafe conditions or near misses immediately.

Team Coordination

• Communicate clearly with the Master Mixer, other Mixer Operators, and production team members.
• Support efficient batch flow by keeping ingredients prepared, staged, and ready for upcoming mixes.
• Assist with training new operators in basic mixing tasks as needed.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Master Mixer, Production Supervisor, or Management to support bakery operations.

Qualification Requirements:

• Ability to read and follow recipe sheets, formulas, and written instructions with accuracy.
• Basic math skills, including weighing ingredients, unit conversion, and portioning.
• Strong attention to detail, especially with ingredient measurement, lot code tracking, and documentation.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Physical Demands:

• Compliance with safety requirements, including PPE such as safety footwear, hard hat, hearing protection, and safety glasses.
• Capability to work in variable temperatures and handle physical tasks like lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Standing or walking for extended periods and maneuvering around equipment.

Work Environment:

This position works in a manufacturing environment with variable temperature and loud noises from machinery and equipment alarms. The incumbent will be exposed to loud noises and alarms from equipment and machinery. Some tasks may require additional safety measures to ensure the safe completion of the task.