Blend Operator

Dairy Farmers of America•Lubbock, TX

About The Position

The Batch-Blend Operator operates continuous-flow or vat-type equipment to process milk, cream, and other dairy products according to specified methods and formulas. The role carries significant responsibility for quality, food safety, and product specifications. The operator monitors blending equipment and component amounts, controls valves, pumps, speeds, and temperatures, and follows applicable industry standards and established testing procedures. The operator provides required samples to the laboratory and assembles and disassembles equipment for cleaning, sanitizing, and operation according to manufacturer instructions. Duties also include observing system operation with gauges and instruments and dismantling, assembling, and installing refrigeration equipment. The operator communicates with other departments, management, and employees about problems or concerns that may affect production efficiency. They complete clear, legible, accurate paperwork and document required information in accordance with SOPs. They analyze process and equipment performance data to support quality and throughput improvements and troubleshooting, and help identify process-improvement opportunities. The role follows Good Manufacturing Practices and required safe-work practices, maintains a clean, sanitary, and safe work area, uses required PPE, and follows confined-space, chemical-handling, and fall-restraint safety procedures. The operator is responsible for food safety prerequisite programs and food quality in the designated area and promptly reports related issues to management. Other duties may be assigned. The position pays up to $23.16 per hour. It requires standing, walking, kneeling, and bending for virtually the entire shift; frequently lifting up to 50 pounds; climbing in high, restricted areas while using a safety harness; and working in a wet environment with some chemical exposure. Flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, and holidays, may be required.

Requirements

Six months of related experience required.
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to stand, walk, kneel, and bend for virtually the entire shift.
Ability to frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb high, restricted areas using a safety harness.
Ability to work in a wet environment with some exposure to chemicals.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, and holidays.
Must pass pre-employment screens, including drug, background, and criminal checks.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Experience within the food and beverage industry preferred.

Responsibilities

Operate continuous-flow or vat-type equipment to process milk, cream, and other dairy products according to specified methods and formulas.
Monitor blending equipment and component and blend amounts; control valves, pumps, speed, and temperatures in accordance with industry standards.
Follow established testing procedures and provide required samples to the laboratory.
Assemble and disassemble equipment for proper cleaning, sanitizing, and operation according to manufacturer instructions.
Observe and test system operation using gauges and instruments.
Dismantle, assemble, and install refrigeration equipment.
Communicate with other departments, management, and employees about problems or concerns that may restrict production efficiency.
Complete paperwork clearly, legibly, and accurately, and document required information in accordance with SOPs.
Analyze process and equipment performance data to improve quality and throughput and to troubleshoot.
Assist in identifying process-improvement opportunities using a continuous-improvement mindset.
Follow Good Manufacturing Practices and maintain a clean, sanitary, and safe work area.
Follow required safe-work practices, including PPE use, confined-space safety, safe chemical handling, and fall restraints.
Support food safety prerequisite programs and food quality in the designated area; immediately report related issues to management.
Perform other duties as assigned.