Production Technician; Extruder 2nd shift

Division Information

The Pet Care business unit of Spectrum Brands is based in St. Louis, Missouri with distribution, manufacturing and sales offices throughout the US and globe. Owners of dogs, cats, birds, small animals, fish and reptiles rely on our brands for exceptional value and trusted results. Our industry‑leading brands include Tetra®, Instant Ocean®, Marineland®, 8‑in‑1®, Dingo®, FURminator®, Nature’s Miracle®, Glo Fish®, Dream Bone® and Smart Bones®.

This position is responsible for all aspects of setting up and running the production equipment. The Production Technician understands the product flow process and procedures and ensures consistent, efficient, and effective workflow throughout the department. This position will be responsible for coordinating and training new employees in using production and packaging machines and execution of production schedules. This position will train on 1st shift from 6:00 am - 2:00 pm.

After training is complete, this position will work from 2:00 pm - 10:00 pm.

• Comply with all Spectrum GPC and site‑specific safety policies (strict adherence to Lockout Tagout procedures and PPE requirements).
• Operate production machines, including troubleshooting, cleanup, setup, basic quality control, and waste control.
• Ensure the work area is clean & organized using LEAN / 5S principles.
• Plan and lay out work to meet production and schedule requirements.
• Monitor and adjust production processes or equipment for quality and productivity.
• Identify and recommend process improvements (using a disciplined approach to problem‑solving).
• Train employees on the operation of equipment. Assist in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Develop an in‑depth understanding of key equipment characteristics necessary to improve quality, prevent downtime, and reduce scrap. This includes (but isnot limited to): changeovers; equipment calibration; consumable part change outs; and process monitoring.
• Work closely with Maintenance on planned preventative maintenance activities. Lead operator shop floor Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) activities.
• Work with Plant cross‑functional Teams to improve performance.
• Analyze Metrics to identify problems and opportunities for improvement.
• Lead troubleshooting activity.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• 2‑year degree/trade school certificate (Preferred).
• Five years (5) related experience operating production and packaging machines in a production environment.
• Fork truck certification.

• Team player with strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong technical and mechanical aptitude.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to consistent attendance.
• Provide leadership to others through example and sharing of knowledge & skill.
• Ability to add, subtract, and multiply.
• Ability to repetitively lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for 8‑hour shifts.
• Keen attention to detail and problem‑solving techniques.
• Basic computer skills (MS Office a plus).

Work is performed in a factory manufacturing setting. Exposure to shop environments such as moving mechanical parts, hot and cold climates, noise, dust, odors, and fumes. Required to stand, bend, reach, and move about facilities.