As a Production Associate, you will operate and monitor freeze drying equipment, ensure safety and quality, assist with maintenance, and comply with food safety standards.
Who We Are
Spot & Tango is an innovative pet health & wellness brand that delivers personalized meal plans on a subscription basis. Our recipes are developed by leading animal nutritionists, and are made with only real, human-grade ingredients... and nothing artificial! We have lofty goals (to make every dog in the country healthier, and every pet parent happier!) and we are looking for the right people to help us get there. This is an exciting opportunity to join a VC-backed, high-growth, e-commerce startup and have an outsized impact in an extremely fast-paced environment. Plus, you get to think about dogs all day!
Who You Are
We are looking for motivated Production Associates to join our brand-new state-of-the-art freeze drying facility in Allentown, PA! In this role, you will be directly responsible for the safe, efficient production of high-quality, fresh, human-grade pet food. Production Associates are highly functional in multiple areas of the plant and are system experts in an assigned area of focus. This position requires strong communication, analytical, interpersonal, and team building skills to support site objectives.
Responsibilities
Production & Operations
- Operate in one or more production rooms (Tray Fill, Freeze Dryer, and Packaging/Washroom) after demonstrating proficiency through practical exams.
- Safely operate and monitor equipment, including freeze dryers, dishwashers, boxers, tapers, and hand trucks.
- Assist with loading, unloading, sanitizing equipment, and maintaining cleanliness in production areas.
- Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and HACCP guidelines.
- Willing and able to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE: bump cap, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, hair net, beard guard, etc.)
- Willing and able to comply with required GMP standards (no jewelry, piercings, false eyelashes, fake nails, nail polish, etc.)
Quality & Safety
- Prioritize personal safety, food safety, and product quality at all times.
- Complete QC checks, production reports, and inventory tracking accurately.
- Immediately report any unsafe conditions, equipment issues, or food safety concerns.
Problem-Solving & Team Support
- Assist maintenance teams in basic equipment troubleshooting and preventative maintenance tasks.
- Identify root causes of production issues and participate in problem-solving.
- Support cross-training efforts to gain competency in additional production rooms.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Production Manager or Shift Manager.
Qualifications
Must Have
- Successfully passed at least one room-specific practical exam (after training period)
- Ability to operate production equipment safely and efficiently
- Basic troubleshooting skills
- Comfortable using computers, tablets, and basic software (ERP, MES, Microsoft Excel)
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Nice to Have
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) manufacturing principles
- Familiarity with HACCP and GMP standards
- Experience working with equipment HMIs
- Previous forklift experience
- 1+ years of experience in food production or manufacturing
Physical Requirements
- Able to lift and lower up to 50 pounds
- Frequent standing, walking, reaching, bending, twisting, and repetitive motions
- Comfortable working at heights (above 6 feet)
- Ability to work in varying environmental conditions:
- Hot: 60°F to 100°F
- Cold: -20°F to 60°F
- Noisy, dusty, or wet environments
- Comfortable working around allergens and chemical
Spot & Tango is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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