Smokehouse 4 Operator 3rd in Sandusky, Ohio at J H Routh Packing Company

Job Summary:

The 3rd Shift Smokehouse Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining smokehouse equipment to ensure products are processed according to company quality, food safety, and production standards. This position plays a critical role in achieving product consistency, yield targets, and regulatory compliance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate smokehouse systems, including loading and unloading product racks or trees.
• Monitor cook cycles, temperatures, humidity, and smoke levels to ensure compliance with product specifications.
• Accurately record weights, temperatures, cook times, and other required production data.
• Verify product meets quality standards and report deviations to supervision.
• Perform pre-operational inspections and basic equipment checks.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of smokehouse equipment and surrounding areas.
• Follow all food safety, HACCP, and USDA regulatory requirements.
• Adhere to all workplace safety policies and wear required PPE.
• Assist with troubleshooting minor mechanical or operational issues.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, QA, and maintenance teams.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic math and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in meat processing or smokehouse operations.
• Familiarity with food safety or HACCP procedures.
• Experience operating industrial cooking or processing equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs regularly.
• Ability to push 400–1,000 lb product racks/trees along overhead rails.
• Ability to perform repetitive movements (bending, reaching, twisting).
• Ability to work in hot, humid, or refrigerated environments.

Work Environment

• Exposure to varying temperatures, including heat and humidity from smokehouse operations.
• Exposure to noise, machinery, and industrial equipment.
• Work around food processing areas requiring strict sanitation practices.
• Potential exposure to cleaning agents and caustic chemicals with proper training and PPE.

Shift Information

Shift: 3rd Shift

• This position typically works shifts of approximately 8 - 10 hours per day.
• Employees are required to work overtime, extended shifts, or weekends, as production needs dictate.
• If call-offs occur, employees are required to remain on duty and may be required to work up to 16 hours in a single day to cover the absence.
• Schedule: Monday to Friday, some Saturdays required based on production needs