Roswell, NM - Cheese Brine Operator

Leprino•Roswell, NM

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Leprino is seeking a Cheese Brine Operator for its Roswell, New Mexico location. The role operates brine equipment to control cheese temperature, dimensions, and consistency by adjusting conveyor speed and chiller temperatures. The operator supports food safety and quality by following GMPs, SOPs, Critical Control Points, food-safety procedures, and USDA regulations. The position requires prior experience and comfort using computers to make adjustments to product specifications and parameters, record process information, and maintain accurate records. It also involves enabling the CIP process and mixing the required amount of chemicals for equipment cleaning, with very minimal chemical handling. The work takes place in a fast-paced, 24-hour/7-day operation. The operator must be available for off-shifts, weekends, holidays, and required overtime, and must work a minimum of 8.5 hours. The role requires standing and walking throughout the shift, lifting and assembling or disassembling pipes, and may involve climbing stairs or ladders. The work environment may include wet or slippery conditions, loud noise, and varying temperatures. Leprino describes its compensation package as including competitive wages, benefits, a bonus program, a 401(k) employer match, and profit sharing. Starting compensation typically ranges from $20.88 to $22.71 per hour, with an additional $1.25 per hour for hours worked between 6 PM and 6 AM. Other listed offerings include tuition assistance, vacation, holidays, dedicated sick time, annual merit increases, and bonuses.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
Must be able to perform essential job functions safely.
Prior experience and comfort using computers are required; the role requires computer adjustments to meet product specifications and parameters.
Must be able to work a minimum of 8.5 hours and support a 24-hour/7-day operation, including Sunday through Saturday, off-shifts, weekends, holidays, and required overtime.
Demonstrated ability to complete work assignments with a high degree of accuracy.
Ability to perform basic mathematical functions and intermediate mathematical calculations.
Good communication skills and ability to read, write, and speak English.
Ability to maintain accurate records.
Good time management skills and ability to work independently without direct supervision.
Ability to interpret data and make necessary decisions.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to stand and walk throughout the shift and perform bending, squatting, reaching, and climbing stairs or ladders.
Ability to work in conditions that may include wet or slippery floors, loud noise, and varying temperatures.
Specific vision may be required, including close, distance, color, and depth perception, and the ability to read computer screens for extended periods.
Must wear role- and location-appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Must undergo the company's hair follicle drug testing.

Responsibilities

Operate brine equipment and adjust conveyor speed and chiller temperatures to control cheese temperature, dimensions, and consistency.
Record cheese temperature, salt, pH, brine, and chlorine information and enter the data into a computer.
Perform filter changes to maintain safe brine flow and support a safe, high-quality product.
Set process parameters at the beginning of the shift to ensure appropriate cheese temperature, brine, salt, and pH levels.
Change pipes and elbows to start the CIP process, ensuring pipes are connected correctly to prevent product and water from mixing.
Enable the CIP process and mix the required amount of chemicals to clean equipment at the end of the shift.
Clean and sanitize equipment according to company procedures and maintain good housekeeping in the work area.
Maintain Good Manufacturing Practices and follow food-safety requirements, SOPs, Critical Control Points, USDA regulations, and applicable safety rules.
Communicate as required with supervisors, forepersons, other departments, and coworkers.
Support food safety and food quality.
Work off-shifts, weekends, holidays, and required overtime to support a 24-hour/7-day operation.