Production Operator

Description

Company Overview: 

At JDH and each of our subsidiaries, we know that agriculture is about more than moving commodities—it’s about connecting people and building relationships that matter. Founded in 1886 and proudly family-owned for five generations, our deep roots in the industry enable us to manage grains, co-products, animal feed, and feed ingredients effectively. With an extensive transportation network, we connect supply and demand across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Asia. We are committed to delivering reliability, value, and innovation, while providing a supportive and safe workplace where our team can thrive and grow.

Job Summary: 

The Production Operator role involves operating and monitoring milling equipment, blending and processing raw materials into high-quality livestock feed, and ensuring consistent product output that meets quality and nutritional standards. You’ll work closely with a team of operators and supervisors to maintain efficient production, uphold safety and sanitation standards, and support the nutritional needs of our dairy customers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate automated and manual feed mill equipment (grinders, mixers, pellet mills, conveyors, etc.).
• Monitor raw material intake, blending, and batching processes for accuracy and consistency.
• Perform routine equipment checks and troubleshoot minor mechanical issues.
• Load/unload ingredients and finished feed using forklifts, skid steers, or front loaders.
• Keep accurate records of production batches, ingredient usage, and maintenance logs.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and PPE guidelines.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of equipment and production areas.
• Assist with inventory counts and quality control procedures.
• Drive a culture of safety, accountability, opportunistic curiosity and contributes to creating an environment where people want to work.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in feed milling, agriculture, food production, or manufacturing preferred.
• Ability to operate forklifts, loaders, and other mill equipment (certification a plus).
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn equipment operation.
• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.
• Comfortable with shift work, weekends, or overtime as needed.

Physical Demands: 

• Indoor/outdoor mill setting with exposure to dust, noise, and temperature changes.
• Fast-paced team environment with a strong focus on safety, cleanliness, and quality.
• Employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 60 pounds, climb 75 feet of ladder, and be able to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl. 
• May require working on a rotating shift or weekends depending on production needs.
• Regular and predictable attendance in office or site location.
• May require local travel to other sites to support production demands on an as needed basis.