Production Process Operator 1 - Mail-in Spore Testing (MIST)

Are you looking for an opportunity to make a difference? At Mesa Labs we're passionate about protecting the vulnerable by enabling scientific breakthroughs, ensuring product integrity, increasing patient and worker safety, and improving quality of life around the world.

At Mesa Labs we offer competitive wages, including bonus opportunity, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Base Compensation: $20/hr

This position is eligible for an annual 10% bonus opportunity in addition to the base salary

Outstanding Benefits and Perks:
We are proud to offer a variety of benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees:

• Eligible for benefits the first day of the month after you start
• Tiered Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance options
• Health savings (HSA), healthcare & dependent care flexible spending (FSA) accounts
• Company paid short term and long-term disability (unless covered by a state disability plan)
• Company paid life insurance and AD&D

• 3 weeks of accrued vacation time; accruals begin on Day 1

• Paid sick leave of 48 hours per calendar year
• Eligible employees may receive four (4) weeks paid Care Giver leave after 1 year of service or in accordance with state leave laws
• 401(k) plan that provides a 4% Safe Harbor company match on a 4% employee contribution that begins on Day 1
• Employee Wellness and Financial Assistance Resources through Cigna and NY Life
• Nine (9) paid company holidays per year
• Overtime opportunities

This position supports Mesa's SDC business. Our Sterilization and Disinfection Control division manufactures and sells biological and chemical indicators that assess the effectiveness of sterilization and disinfection processes for pharmaceutical, healthcare, and dental industries.

Job Summary

The Production Process Operator I - Mail-in Spore Testing (MIST) is an entry-level position responsible for assisting in the operation, monitoring, and processing of Biological Indicator (BI) strips. Individuals in this role will be trained in the essential processes of production and will work under the supervision of more experienced operators and production supervisors. Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), ensuring product quality, maintaining a clean and safe work environment, and reporting any issues or discrepancies that may occur during the production process.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Process Biological Indicator (BI) strips accurately and efficiently. This process involves removing spore strips from packaging, putting them in test tubes, and correctly placing the test tubes in designated positions on test tube racks. Technicians spend 85% of their time processing BI strips.
• Place prepared test racks into appropriate incubators.
• Complete required documentation.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary workspace.
• Must have the ability to handle repetitious and detailed job functions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Quality Control and Inspection:

• Perform basic inspections of products during production to ensure compliance with company specifications and quality standards.
• Document any defects, discrepancies, or quality control issues and report them to a higher-level operator or supervisor.
• Ensure the proper labeling and storage of products as per company and regulatory requirements.

Material Handling and Inventory:

• Assist in the organization, opening and sorting of incoming test packets when received in the lab.
• Monitor inventory levels of materials used in the production process, ensuring materials are available when needed and helping track material usage.
• Communicate with supervisor to restock materials as necessary.
• Handle materials safely and efficiently, following proper storage and handling protocols to avoid damage and waste.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure a safe work environment.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by company policies.
• Adhere to safety guidelines and ensure that workspaces are free from hazards such as spills, obstructions, or improperly stored materials.
• Participate in regular safety meetings and contribute to maintaining a culture of safety on the production floor.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Record daily production data, including materials used, quantities produced, and any incidents or maintenance activities that occurred during the shift.
• Complete quality control checklists and any required forms or logs accurately.
• Report production progress, equipment performance, and any problems to the shift supervisor or senior operator.

Team Collaboration:

• Work closely with fellow operators, maintenance staff, and supervisors to ensure smooth production operations.
• Communicate effectively with team members, ask questions when unsure, and take direction from more experienced staff members.
• Participate in team meetings to discuss production goals, safety, quality control, and any issues that arise during operations.

Experience/Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Less than 1 year of related experience.

Knowledge & Skillsets Required:

• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn how to operate and troubleshoot production machinery.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in identifying product quality issues.
• Ability to follow instructions and work under the supervision of more experienced operators and supervisors.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, for reporting issues and providing updates.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Basic computer skills for data entry, reporting, and documentation purposes.

Physical Demands:

• Standing or walking: Frequently during production processes and equipment operation.
• Lifting: Handling and moving materials or products, sometimes heavy.
• Manual dexterity: Using tools and operating machinery with precision.
• Bending and crouching: Accessing machinery or performing tasks in confined spaces.
• Repetitive motions: Repeatedly performing assembly or production tasks.

Environmental Conditions:

• Workspace: Climate control (air conditioning or heating) to ensure comfort.
• Lighting: Artificial lighting
• Noise Levels: Light to moderate
• Ergonomics:
• Ventilation: Good ventilation to ensure a comfortable working environment, though this can vary depending on the building.
• Safety: Must use protective gear (gloves, lab coats, goggles) and adherence to safety standards.

Mesa Labs is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Mesa Labs prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment against applicants or employees based on age, race, sex, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, disability, military status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law. Please note that Mesa Labs conducts criminal background checks upon offer acceptance.