Sanitation

Description

Job Summary:

The Sanitation Technician is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing all production and support equipment in accordance with Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs) to ensure food safety and product quality. This role requires knowledge of equipment assembly/disassembly, chemical handling, and compliance with safety and food safety regulations.

Requirements

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Disassemble, clean, and reassemble equipment following SOPs and SSOPs.
• Use required PPE and follow proper handling procedures for cleaning agents and hazardous materials.
• Clean work areas, equipment, and common spaces to meet GMP, SSOP, and safety standards.
• Safely use, store, and dispose of cleaning chemicals according to manufacturer instructions.
• Apply Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures when working on equipment.
• Operate and monitor Clean-In-Place (CIP) systems.
• Perform sanitation of production areas and equipment to meet pre-op and food safety requirements.
• Assist with sanitation documentation, logs, and recordkeeping.
• Support audits and inspections by ensuring sanitation records and conditions are compliant.
• Report equipment malfunctions, unsafe practices, or hazards immediately.
• Maintain sanitation tools and equipment in good working condition.
• Assist production teams during changeovers to minimize downtime.
• Communicate with Quality Assurance (QA) regarding inspection results and corrective actions
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and make recommendations.
• Participate in safety and sanitation training programs.
• Establish and maintain effective communication and teamwork with coworkers.
• Adapt to schedule changes and production needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

· High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.

· Basic mechanical aptitude and knowledge of equipment/machinery.

· Familiarity with LOTO procedures.

· Ability to read and understand charts, gauges, and sanitation records.

· Basic math skills.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Able to read, write, and understand English preferred.

· Flexibility to work varied shifts, including weekends, based on production needs.

Physical Requirements:

· Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, stooping, and kneeling.

· Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs. regularly.

· Frequent use of hands for gripping, grasping, scrubbing, and handling sanitation tools and equipment.

· Ability to climb stairs and ladders as needed for sanitation of elevated equipment and platforms.

· Frequent reaching at, below, and above shoulder level to clean equipment and facility surfaces.

· Must be able to work in hot, humid, wet, and cold environments, with exposure to cleaning chemicals and pressurized water.

· Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, face shield, hearing protection, waterproof clothing, and steel-toe shoes.

· Ability to tolerate strong cleaning agents and odors while working safely with chemical solutions.

· Must be able to maneuver hoses, pressure sprayers, foamers, and other sanitation equipment for extended periods.

· Must maintain mental alertness, focus, and ability to follow detailed sanitation procedures safely and effectively in a fast-paced environment.