Production Associate

Uckele Health & Nutrition Inc.

Founded in 1962, Uckele Health & Nutrition, Inc. is an industry-leading global contract manufacturing company that specializes in the production of a wide variety of nutritional supplements and health products. Our headquarters is based in Blissfield, Michigan, and we operate under a strict regulatory framework to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.

We are well-recognized for our top-quality formulations in capsules, powders, soft chews, pellets, pastes, liquids, and topical products. From nutritional supplements for humans to performance products for equine and pet nutrition, Uckele is committed to scientific innovation, superior ingredients, and advanced manufacturing processes.

At Uckele, making people and their animals healthier is our core passion. We value the health and wellness of our consumers and employees, which is reflected in our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. We have established a robust reputation for reliability and integrity, and we are passionate about continuously expanding our knowledge and capabilities to exceed our customers' expectations.

We are dedicated to creating a workplace that fosters innovation, teamwork, and continuous learning. Here at Uckele, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. We offer a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment, along with opportunities for career growth and professional development.

We are constantly looking for dedicated professionals with a passion for health, wellness, and innovation to join our dynamic team. If you share our commitment to excellence and are ready to make a difference in the health and wellness industry, we would love to hear from you.

Summary/Objective

The production associate performs all tasks involved in the production of products at the Pet Plant. The production associate follows all standard work methods and practices safe work habits to ensure production is as efficient and safe as possible.

Essential Duties

• Reads, understands and interprets Batch Records and Fill Tickets to precise specifications.
• Identifies, weighs and mixes raw ingredients for batching as defined by GMP standards.
• Mixes and forms soft chews (using both automatic and semi-automatic equipment) to meet specifications and document all required details.
• Performs packaging procedures (fills containers/pouches with soft chews) as defined on the batch record and defined specifications.
• Labels products according to specification and regulation/GMP Standards..
• Puts lot numbers and “best by” dates on bottles (called Spraying) using an ink jet printer.
• Cleans and sanitizes the processing equipment and surrounding area.
• Checks to ensure the quality of products before, during and after the manufacturing process.
• Performs thorough line clearance after the end of all production runs to prevent cross contamination or mix ups.
• Maintains a clean and safe work area.
• Notifies supervisor of any mechanical or material issues.
• Responsible to report all, major or minor food safety problems to personnel with authority to initiate action.
• Promote food safety and quality awareness throughout the organization.
• Performs or assists with other projects or duties as assigned.

Competencies

To be successful in this position, the associate must:

• Be able to perform simple math and use percentages.
• Be able to follow printed instructions thoroughly.
• Be trained on and understand 6s practices.
• Be trained on Standard Operating Procedures and Work Instructions as required.
• Be trained on and follow all safety procedures and requirements.
• Maintain excellent communication and respectful relationships with others.
• Perform in a manner consistent with company Vision/Mission Statement and Core Values.

Physical Environment/ Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• The associate will frequently be required to stand for long periods of time and to occasionally sit, bend, or stoop to perform certain tasks.
• The associate will frequently be required to make coordinated hand and finger movements to grasp and manipulate objects.
• The associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 55 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job may include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
• The associate must be able to wear personal PPE, including gloves, masks, etc., when required.
• The associate may be required to obtain a forklift certification to perform forklift duties.

Work Environment

• While performing the duties of this job, the associate is frequently exposed to fumes, airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment can be loud.
• ·Associates in the plant may be exposed to raw ingredients and food allergens (milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat).

Work Hours

This is a full-time position, with a generally set schedule. However, the associate may be required to work overtime or work a flexible schedule based on operational need.

Required Education and Experience

• A high school diploma or GED preferred.
• Excellent work history, attendance, initiative and drive to succeed.