Pilot Plant Operator

The primary purpose of this position is to operate all equipment in order to produce the full line of Kemin products while maintaining all manufacturing performance and quality standards within Kemin Nutrisurance.  This includes assembling and preparing the necessary and correct ingredients and raw materials, measuring and blending materials and operating equipment in the manufacturing process.  Some packaging of bulk and finished products and preparing for shipping and receiving of freight and materials will occur.  It is expected that the employee will take careful considerations when performing their job.  They are expected to follow instructions, specific procedures and protocols, and adhere to the required measures to ensure the highest quality of product and safe work environment. This position is located on the Des Moines Campus in the Pilot Plant. The hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm. 

We Are Kemin  

We are visionaries who see things differently and are inspired by the world around us.   

We have been dedicated to using applied science to improve the quality of life for over half a century.    

We are a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services.   

For over half a century, Kemin has been dedicated to using applied science to address industry challenges and offer product solutions to customers in more than 120 countries. Kemin provides ingredients to feed a growing population with its commitment to the quality, safety and efficacy of food, feed and health-related products to customers around the world.    

Established in 1961, Kemin is a privately held, family-owned-and-operated company with more than 2,800 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, India, Italy, Russia, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa and the United States. 

As a Kemin team member, you’ll receive…  

• A competitive financial package- in addition to your salary, we offer an uncapped bonus opportunity, 401k match program, and paid vacation and holidays. 
• Robust health and wellness support- we are proud to offer a fitness reimbursement (for your whole family!), an on-site fitness center, restaurant with seasonal fresh food options (and the ability to order food to bring home), and free fresh fruit in break areas- to name a few.  
• Continued learning opportunities- Kemin offers tuition reimbursement and recently launched a new corporate university with online and in-person training opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.  
• The chance to give back to our world- Through our foundation of servant leadership, we are proud to offer ample service opportunities, including paid time off to do so. Kemin has a valued corporate partnership with both The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, in addition to many local initiatives. 
• Opportunities to support our valued educators- Kemin is a proud sponsor of the Iowa Governor's Stem Advisory Council where we fund annual teacher's awards. In addition, we have a robust internship and externship program, and frequently host student tours. 

• Responsible for being the subject matter expert in process area.  
• Operate equipment and processes in multiple areas/departments. 
• Demonstrate job tasks and provide feedback as needed. 

• Assemble and process raw materials for production of finished product per manufacturing order. 
• May package and label finished products.  
• Assist in preparation for shipping, as applicable. 
• Operate and monitor assigned equipment by following established written operations and safety procedures.  
• Follow manufacturing orders and entering data for batch records and inventory control via computer system. 

• Responsible for routine area/equipment, cleaning/sanitation, and notifying maintenance of equipment issues. 
• Pull and send incoming raw material samples to Quality. 
• Visually inspect raw material for obvious damage or defect.   
• Assure order meets receiving order documentation.   
• Complete in-process and finished product sampling per SOP’s 

• Follow all GMP required procedures and practices. 
• Follow Master Sanitation schedule, per instructed.  
• Assist Supervisor with on the job training and provide feedback. 
• Assist with providing proactive recommendations for equipment maintenance and process improvements. 
• Follows and maintains an environment of food and feed safety in compliance with rules and regulations, as applicable. 

• Education and Experience:
  • High School diploma, or equivalent, with 0-3 years of applicable experience
• Work with other departments such as Quality, Auditing, Maintenance, Inventory, and Research and Development. 
• Perform rework when needed.
• Time management and prioritizing skills are needed. 
• Good math skills and ability to accurately measure/weigh. 
• Must be able to learn and use PC/PLC equipment. 
• Ability to key/enter data into computer system. 
• Detailed-oriented. 
• Excellent communication skills. 
• Mechanical aptitude. 
• Must be reliable and have good attendance. 
• Ability to read and follow Standard Operating Procedures, solves basic problems, and utilize cognitive reasoning and ability to use formulas to calculate proper mixtures. 
• Ability to use hand tools for normal preventative equipment maintenance and cleaning. 
• Must be able to see, read and write.  

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required.  Additional pre-employment requirements may be necessary based on position.

Kemin is an equal opportunity employer, and all reasonable accommodations will be considered.

Kemin is a drug-free and tobacco-free campus. 

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