Kettle tender

Kettle tenders operate machines that mix chewing gum base with sugar or sweetener. They follow procedures to place gum base in containers and then direct it to flow into mixers.

The following job titles also refer to kettle tender:

chewing gum production operative
gum sheeting machine operator
chewing gum mixer operator
chewing gum production machinist

A high school diploma is generally required to work as a kettle tender.

ISCO skill level is defined as a function of the complexity and range of tasks and duties to be performed in an occupation. It is measured on a scale from 1 to 4, with 1 the lowest level and 4 the highest, by considering:

• the nature of the work performed in an occupation in relation to the characteristic tasks and duties
• the level of formal education required for competent performance of the tasks and duties involved and
• the amount of informal on-the-job training and/or previous experience in a related occupation required for competent performance of these tasks and duties.

Kettle tender is a Skill level 2 occupation.

These occupations, although different, require a lot of knowledge and skills similar to kettle tender.

coffee roaster
cacao beans cleaner
yeast distiller
candy machine operator
extract mixer tester

These occupations require some skills and knowledge of kettle tender. They also require other skills and knowledge, but at a higher ISCO skill level, meaning these occupations are accessible from a position of kettle tender with a significant experience and/or extensive training.

green coffee coordinator
animal feed supervisor
malt house supervisor
food technician
dairy processing technician

This knowledge should be acquired through learning to fulfill the role of kettle tender.

• Temperature scales: Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales.
• Chemical aspects of sugar: Chemical aspects and constitution of sugar to alter recipes and provide customers with experiences of pleasure.

These skills are necessary for the role of kettle tender.

• Control open-fire kettles: Control open-fire kettles, steam-jacketed kettles, batch cookers, or continuous pressure cookers to cook gum, candy, and other confectionery ingredients according to formula.
• Monitor flow of gum: Monitor the flow of gum from mixer into the hopper of the machine.
• Mark differences in colours: Identify differences between colours, such as shades of colour.
• Manage delivery of raw materials: Manage reception of raw materials. Receive raw materials from the suppliers. Check for quality and accuracy and move into the warehouse. Make sure that raw materials are adequately stored until they are required by the production department.
• Apply HACCP: Apply regulations regarding manufacture of food and food safety compliance. Employ food safety procedures based on Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP).
• Lift heavy weights: Lift heavy weights and apply ergonomic lifting techniques to avoid damaging the body.
• Apply requirements concerning manufacturing of food and beverages: Apply and follow national, international, and internal requirements quoted in standards, regulations and other specifications related with manufacturing of food and beverages.
• Apply GMP: Apply regulations regarding manufacture of food and food safety compliance. Employ food safety procedures based on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Carry out checks of production plant equipment: Carry out checks of the machinery and equipment used in the production plant. Ensure that the machinery is working properly, set machines before usage, and assure continuous operability of the equipment.
• Monitor temperature in manufacturing process of food and beverages: Monitor and control required temperatures in the different phases of production until the product reaches suitable properties according to specifications.

These skills and competences are sometimes, but not always, required for the role of kettle tender. However, mastering these skills and competences allows you to have more opportunities for career development.

• Operate automated process control: Operate process control or automation system (PAS) used to control a production process automatically.
• Work independently in service of a food production process: Work individually as an important element in service of a food production process. This function is executed individually with little or no supervision or collaboration with colleagues.
• Perform cleaning duties: Perform cleaning duties such as waste removal, vacuuming, emptying bins, and general cleaning of the working area. Cleaning activities should follow health and safety regulations if required.
• Follow written instructions: Follow written directions in order to perform a task or carry out a step-by-step procedure.
• Follow hygienic procedures during food processing: Ensure a clean working space according to hygienic standards in the food processing industry.
• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation in food production: Make sure to comply with environmental legislation in food production. Understand the legislation related to environmental matters in food manufacturing and apply it in practice.
• Follow verbal instructions: Have the ability to follow spoken instructions received from colleagues. Strive to understand and clarify what is being requested.

8160 – Food and related products machine operators

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References

1. Kettle tender – ESCO