The Dairy Processing Operator is responsible for operating either the HTST pasteurization system or the filling line, depending on the day's assignment. When assigned to the pasteurizer, the operator ensures finished products are properly pasteurized, pathogen-free, and meet food safety standards. When assigned to the filling line, the operator ensures product is properly filled, packaged, and labeled in accordance with food safety and regulatory standards. This position plays a key role in producing high-quality milk and cream for retail, wholesale, and in-house bakery use. This is the highest station level in the dairy department, and the operator is expected to know and be able to work all stations, moving between pasteurization, filling, and general dairy support duties (including moving product, restocking, and supporting the wholesale team) as scheduled or as production needs require. As a member of the dairy team, the Dairy Processing Operator helps maintain a safe, sanitary, and collaborative work environment, with a shared goal of delivering exceptional dairy products to our customers. Essential Duties and Responsibilities - The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following: - HTST System and Pasteurization Operations - Operate and monitor the HTST pasteurization system, separator, homogenizer, blending tanks, pumps, and related dairy processing equipment. - Ensure compliance with pasteurization standards and appendix N testing. - Accurately verify and record temperature readings and pasteurization charts. Filling and Production Line Operations - Clean, set up, operate, and monitor the filler, capper, and associated production equipment. - Make necessary adjustments to the filler and capper to ensure a consistent, high-quality product with minimal downtime. - Ensure appropriate packaging materials are used for each product, and perform safe, efficient filler and filler-line changeovers. - Complete cleaning checklists after production runs, prepare equipment for the next run, and restock packaging materials to maintain production flow for the next shift. Sanitation and Food Safety - Perform and document Clean-in-Place (CIP) cycles, SSOPs, and manual equipment cleaning for the HTST system, pasteurized tanks, filler, and related machinery. - Ensure proper use of cleaning chemicals and sanitation protocols. - Uphold all food safety and quality standards; report concerns immediately to management. Standard Procedures and Quality Control - Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for batching, processing, pasteurization, and filling. - Monitor critical control points to ensure products meet regulatory and internal quality standards. - Complete all production logs, batch records, and compliance documentation accurately. Team Communication and Coordination - Maintain effective communication with fellow team members, and promptly report operational issues or concerns. - Work with the milk mover and dairy team to keep production volumes accurate and reduce waste, flagging any discrepancies to the Shift Leader/Manager. General Operations, Troubleshooting and Continuous Improvement - Identify and report mechanical or process issues to management or maintenance; troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operational issues promptly. - Participate in and help identify continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety. - Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. - Perform other duties as assigned. Competencies: - Attention to detail and ability to spot product issues and monitor cyclical tasks. - Strong teamwork and independent work capabilities. - Must have a solid understanding of physical fitness, safety protocols, and advanced cleanliness/food safety standards. - Ability to troubleshoot a d resolve operational issues quickly and effectively. - Ability to follow detailed instructions and adhere to established procedures. - Commitment to cleanliness and safety standards, with the ability to act quickly when a problem occurs. - Continuous improvement mindset and willingness to help identify opportunities to enhance processes. Minimum Qualifications: - High school diploma or GED preferred. - 2+ years food manufacturing experience is required not optional - Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures and safety protocols. - Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, production-driven environment. - Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn operation of complex systems. Supervisory Responsibilities: None Travel No travel is expected for this position. Schedule and Availability: - Full-time position with schedule depending on business needs. - Ability to work weekdays, weekends, holidays, and early mornings; occasional night shifts may be required. - Must be available to work the days leading up to major holidays (Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) as required. - Must be able to adhere to flexible work schedules to meet operational needs. Physical Demands and Work Environment The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here represent those encountered while performing the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. Physical Requirements - Work is performed in a loud, wet dairy processing plant with exposure to strong cleaning chemicals and cold environments (coolers). - Required PPE includes non-skid rubber boots and any other protective equipment needed for cleaning or processing. - Equipment operated includes the HTST system, separator, homogenizer, pumps, blending tanks, bottle filler, capper, and related machinery. - Frequently lift and move objects over 60 lbs and push/pull dairy wagons weighing 200-700 lbs. - Regularly required to stand for long periods, speak and hear clearly, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, and climb. - Specific vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception, as well as the ability to adjust focus. ::: {dir="ltr"} ::: Wright's Dairy Farm and Bakery is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We operate a drug-free environment and adhere to ADA regulations as applicable.