About the Role
The PET Filler Operator plays a key role in executing assigned Production tasks. This includes setting up, operating, cleaning, and troubleshooting production equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Responsibilities
- Operate assigned filling equipment, including setup, pre-start, startup, operation, shutdown, and cleaning, following standard operating procedures.
- Troubleshoot equipment according to established procedures.
- Operate and monitor high-speed PET bottle filling lines for fluid milk, flavored milk, cream, half & half, and other ESL/Aseptic dairy products.
- Set up and adjust PET filling machines, including filler valves, conveyors, and bottle guides, to maintain accurate and consistent fill volumes and weights.
- Operate cap sorters, cap elevators, and rotary capping/torquing heads; perform checks to ensure proper cap application and seal integrity.
- Execute PET bottle format and SKU changeovers, including bottle size, cap size, and product type changes, with minimal downtime.
- Ensure a consistent and uninterrupted supply of PET bottles to the filling line and remove defective bottles before they enter the filler.
- Perform visual and dimensional bottle inspections prior to filling infeed, identifying and removing defective bottles.
- Perform basic preventive maintenance on filling equipment, including lubrication, seal inspection, and filler valve cleaning; promptly communicate mechanical faults to maintenance.
- Conduct in-process quality checks, including fill volume, fill weight, cap torque, and seal integrity; segregate and hold non-conforming product.
- Clear jam-ups and restore production line operation.
- Notify others of mechanical malfunctions to increase productivity and equipment capabilities and identify areas where operators can assist in resolving concerns.
- Monitor and document CIP processes, including chemical conductivity, temperature, and time controls for CIP, and perform manual washing of equipment following COP procedures.
- Maintain production schedule, meet order expectations, monitor variances, and report out-of-spec issues.
- Participate in waste reduction efforts (MUV).
- Utilize inventory control system to ensure proper updating of inventory and to look up necessary details.
- Maintain an organized and efficient workspace to comply with 5s standards.
- Communicate effectively between shifts and other departments.
Requirements
- GED or High School Diploma is preferred.
- Previous manufacturing or machine operation experience is preferred.
Location
- 3156 Byrne Hollow Crossing Cortland, NY 13045
Work Type
- Rotating weekend shift
Education Level
- GED or High School Diploma preferred
Salary/Compensations
- $26.50 - $37.00 per hour
Benefits
- Competitive bonus programs
- Medical, Dental, Vision benefits available day 1 of employment
- Supplemental benefits available on day 30 of employment
- Eligible for 401(k) with a company match available on day 90 of employment
- Educational Support via tuition reimbursement and scholarship program
About the Company
- Headquartered in LaFayette, Byrne is a Central New York-based dairy company with a legacy spanning over 90 years.
- Operations include an extended shelf-life (ESL) and ultra-high temperature (UHT) pasteurization plant in DeWitt, as well as an ESL manufacturing facility in Cortlandville.
- Byrne also maintains warehouse facilities in Syracuse and East Syracuse, along with a dedicated ice cream center in Syracuse.
- As a recognized industry leader, Byrne continues to drive innovation at the forefront of dairy processing and product development.
