Reports To : Grade Supervisor
Department :
Production Operations (Carton Production)
Job Summary :
The Sizer / Grader Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of sizing and grading equipment at Jireh Packing, ensuring the effective sorting and sizing of citrus fruit to meet production demands while adhering to safety and quality standards. Reporting to the Grade Supervisor, this role involves operating computerized automated grading machines such as Tomra and Compac sizers and graders, with a focus on implementing and utilizing the new Tomra LUCAi advanced AI grading system this season. The operator performs routine maintenance, conducts quality inspections, troubleshoots issues, and collaborates with the production team to minimize downtime and maximize fruit utilization in a fast-paced citrus packing facility.
Key Responsibilities :
- Equipment Operation :
- Operate Sizer / Grading machinery efficiently and safely, monitoring machine performance and making adjustments as necessary to optimize production.
- Set up and calibrate machines for each production run, adjusting settings based on fruit type, lot requirements, and AI-driven recommendations from the Tomra LUCAi system.
- Implement and utilize the Tomra LUCAi advanced AI grading system, interpreting AI insights to enhance sorting precision and adaptability.
- Quality Control :
- Conduct regular inspections of sorted materials to ensure compliance with quality standards, documenting and reporting any quality issues or malfunctions to the supervisor immediately.
- Verify grading accuracy for color, size, quality, and defects, ensuring alignment with customer and export specifications.
- Maintenance :
- Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of the sizer equipment, assisting in troubleshooting and repair of mechanical issues as needed.
- Maintain electronic and hardware components in clean and good operating condition, following shutdown procedures and reporting major issues to the Grade Supervisor.
- Safety Compliance :
- Follow all safety protocols and procedures to maintain a safe working environment, participating in safety training and meetings.
- Ensure a clean and sanitized work area around grading equipment to prevent contamination.
- Collaboration :
- Work closely with team members, line supervisors, production managers, and QC technicians to ensure smooth operations and cohesive communication.
- Communicate effectively to report production statistics and any operational challenges.
- Other duties as required
Qualifications :
High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in machinery operation preferred.Previous experience operating sorting or sizing machinery, preferably TOMRA or Compac equipment.Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.Good communication skills and a team-oriented mindset.Familiarity with automated grading systems and willingness to train on the Tomra LUCAi AI system.Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift moderate weights (up to 50 lbs), and work in varying environmental conditions.Education and Experience :
High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification in machinery operation or agriculture preferred.Minimum of 1–2 years of experience as a machine operator in a packing house, with exposure to automated grading systems.Experience in citrus packing facilities is highly desirable.Working Conditions :
This role is based in the production facility, with exposure to wet, humid, and noisy environments, including cold storage areas.May involve extended hours during peak packing season.Ability to lift and move heavy materials as required.Willingness to work in varying environmental conditions.