Plant Operator
Plant operators are responsible for the daily activity and performance at manufacturing and processing facilities. They lead by example, providing support to employees and ensuring that they work efficiently and safely. Plant operators look at operations processes to identify areas that could be improved and lead in their development.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Supervise, direct and coordinate employee activities
- Develop and implement the plant’s annual budget and strategic plans
- Review and analyze manufacturing reports to determine areas of potential improvement
- Collaborate with other senior staff to meet company goals and objectives
- Implement programs to minimize downtime, set-up time and changeover time
- Communicate effectively with production personnel at all levels
- Look for ways to make manufacturing more efficient and sustainable
- Ensure all federal, state and local regulations pertaining to workforce safety are followed
- Investigate and provide recommendation to minimize product loss
- Track and report on production and safety metrics
- Analyze and resolve work problems or assists workers in finding solutions
- Track production times and outputs
- Lead staff meetings with production staff
- Have a knowledge of accounting and financial aspects of manufacturing
- Coordinate staff training and skill development
- Schedule the maintenance of equipment and outside contractors
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- mathematics
- business
- personal finance
Education/Training Required:
A bachelor’s degree in agricultural business, food science, animal science or poultry science is needed. Some roles may also be obtainable with an associate degree. However, experience working in a manufacturing environment for multiple years is a requirement before taking on a managerial role.
