CIP Valve Operator (Clean-In-Place Lines)

The Senior CIP Valve Operator leads the operation, oversight, and optimization of Clean-In-Place (CIP) valve systems used in sanitary processing environments. This position ensures proper cleaning and sanitization of process piping, tanks, vessels, and product lines by managing automated valve routing, validating cycle performance, and upholding food safety and GMP compliance. The senior operator also plays a mentoring role and supports troubleshooting, documentation, and audit readiness.

This role is critical in industries such as food & beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical, and biotech, where hygienic process conditions are essential to product integrity and regulatory compliance.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Advanced Operation and Optimization of CIP Valve Systems

2. Sanitation Program Compliance and Documentation Oversight

3. System Troubleshooting and Root Cause Analysis

4. Team Support, Training, and Leadership

5. Audit Preparedness and Process Improvement

Key Responsibilities:

1. Advanced Operation and Optimization of CIP Valve Systems

• • Independently run complex CIP valve sequencing via HMI or control systems.

  • Ensure all valve actuations and flow routings follow validated cleaning protocols.

  • Adjust system parameters (flow rate, pressure, time) for optimal cleaning effectiveness.

2. Sanitation Program Compliance and Documentation Oversight

• • Ensure all CIP cycles meet established regulatory and internal cleanliness standards (GMP, HACCP, FDA, etc.).

  • Review and maintain documentation for cleaning logs, valve operation reports, and chemical usage records.

  • Serve as a point of contact during inspections and audits.

3. System Troubleshooting and Root Cause Analysis

• • Diagnose and resolve valve malfunctions, including improper sequencing, actuator failure, or leak detection.

  • Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to identify long-term corrective actions.

  • Support system changeover, CIP validation, and requalification.

4. Team Support, Training, and Leadership

• • Train and mentor junior and mid-level CIP operators in system operation, sanitation protocol, and documentation.

  • Lead shift handovers, safety briefings, and sanitation system updates.

  • Provide feedback to supervisors for scheduling, planning, and performance improvement.

5. Audit Preparedness and Process Improvement

• • Maintain audit-ready conditions through rigorous attention to procedural accuracy and documentation.

  • Identify process improvement opportunities in valve layout, CIP timing, and automation.

  • Participate in cross-functional projects to enhance hygienic design or CIP system performance.

Required Qualifications:

• • Diploma or associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Process Engineering, or Sanitation Science.

  • 5+ years of experience operating CIP systems in a regulated manufacturing or processing environment.

  • Proficient in interpreting P&IDs, valve diagrams, and automated CIP control systems.

Preferred Skills:

• • Deep understanding of sanitary valve types: mixproof, butterfly, diaphragm, and control valves.

  • Hands-on experience with CIP systems (e.g., Alfa Laval, SPX Flow, GEA, Burkert).

  • Familiarity with SCADA/HMI, PLC interfacing, and valve diagnostics.

  • Experience in leading sanitation audits and addressing non-conformances.