Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Extractor Operator

🎯 Role Definition

As an Extractor Operator, you are the cornerstone of our production process. You will be entrusted with transforming raw botanical materials into high-quality extracts using advanced extraction technologies. Your day-to-day will involve the precise operation, monitoring, and maintenance of extraction systems, meticulous documentation, and a steadfast commitment to safety and compliance protocols. This role requires a sharp eye for detail, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively to meet production goals and drive continuous improvement.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Manufacturing Associate
Laboratory Technician
Production Technician
Packaging Specialist

Advancement To:

Lead Extractor Operator
Extraction Manager / Supervisor
Process Engineer
Laboratory Manager

Lateral Moves:

Quality Assurance (QA) Technician
Formulation Specialist
Research & Development (R&D) Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Operate and monitor advanced extraction equipment, including but not limited to supercritical CO2, ethanol, and hydrocarbon systems, ensuring all parameters (temperature, pressure, flow rates) are within specified limits.
Execute all extraction and post-processing procedures with precision and consistency according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Meticulously weigh, grind, and prepare raw plant material for the extraction process, ensuring accurate batch records.
Perform post-extraction refinement processes such as winterization, filtration, decarboxylation, and distillation to achieve desired product purity and specifications.
Systematically log all operational data, including batch numbers, run times, yields, and any deviations, in production logs and digital tracking systems.
Conduct routine and preventative maintenance on all extraction equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
Assemble, disassemble, and perform deep cleaning of extraction machinery and ancillary equipment in compliance with GMP and sanitation standards.
Troubleshoot equipment and process issues in real-time, identifying root causes and implementing effective corrective actions to maintain workflow.
Handle and manage hazardous materials, including solvents and compressed gases, with strict adherence to safety data sheets (SDS) and company safety protocols.
Monitor inventory levels of raw materials, solvents, and other production supplies, communicating needs to the supply chain team to prevent shortages.
Pull samples of in-process material and finished extracts for quality control testing, and collaborate with the lab team to interpret results.
Ensure the final product meets all quality, purity, and consistency standards before it moves to the next stage of production.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment within the extraction lab at all times, following all OSHA and company-specific EHS guidelines.
Calibrate scales, sensors, and other critical instrumentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Manage and document the proper disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials generated during the extraction process.
Strive to meet and exceed daily and weekly production targets while never compromising on safety or product quality.
Actively participate in the development and refinement of SOPs and batch records to improve safety, efficiency, and product consistency.
Prepare and package finished bulk extracts for storage or transfer to the formulation and packaging departments.
Operate material handling equipment, such as forklifts and pallet jacks, to move raw materials and finished goods safely.
Work collaboratively in a team environment, effectively communicating with other operators, technicians, and supervisors across shifts to ensure smooth handoffs.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis to identify trends and opportunities for process optimization.
Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap by providing accurate and timely production data.
Collaborate with business units, including R&D and Quality, to translate product needs into executable engineering and production requirements.
Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and other agile ceremonies within the data and production engineering teams to drive continuous improvement projects.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Extraction Equipment Operation: Proven experience operating and maintaining industrial extraction systems (e.g., Supercritical CO2, Ethanol, BHO).
Post-Processing Techniques: Hands-on knowledge of winterization, short-path distillation, wiped-film evaporation, and chromatography.
Mechanical Aptitude: Strong ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and perform minor repairs on pumps, valves, and complex machinery.
GMP & Regulatory Compliance: Deep understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and EHS/OSHA safety regulations in a production environment.
Process Chemistry: Foundational knowledge of chemistry and thermodynamics as they apply to extraction and purification processes.
Data Logging & LIMS: Proficiency in maintaining meticulous digital and physical batch records; experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or seed-to-sale tracking software is a plus.
Instrumentation & Calibration: Skill in using and calibrating lab equipment like analytical scales, pH meters, and vacuum gauges.
Solvent Handling: Certified or demonstrably skilled in the safe handling, storage, and disposal of flammable liquids and compressed gases.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: Exceptional precision and thoroughness in following procedures and documenting results.
Problem-Solving: A methodical and analytical approach to identifying issues and implementing effective solutions under pressure.
Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly regulated, and evolving manufacturing environment.
Communication: Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills for effective team collaboration and shift handovers.
Time Management: Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and meet tight production deadlines.
Teamwork: A collaborative mindset with a proven ability to work constructively with peers, supervisors, and other departments.
Integrity & Work Ethic: A strong sense of responsibility and commitment to producing high-quality, safe products.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Chemistry / Organic Chemistry
Chemical Engineering
Biology or a related Physical Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of hands-on experience in a relevant manufacturing, laboratory, or production environment.

Preferred:

Direct experience in botanical, cannabis, food-grade, or pharmaceutical extraction is highly desirable.