Roswell, NM - Cheese Mixer/Extruder Operator

Leprino•Roswell, NM

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Leprino Foods Company is seeking a Cheese Extruder Operator to join its team in Roswell, New Mexico. The operator maintains ingredient levels and proper mixtures in cheese production, makes computer adjustments to start CIP processes and control product settings, and enters production data such as pH levels, ribbon dimensions, and weights. The role involves cleaning and sanitizing equipment, applying chemical dosages, maintaining good housekeeping, and following GMPs, SOPs, food-safety requirements, USDA regulations, and safety procedures. The operator communicates with supervisors, coworkers, and other departments and is responsible for food safety and quality. The position operates in a 24-hour, seven-day environment and requires availability for off-shifts, weekends, holidays, and required overtime. Work takes place indoors in conditions that may be warm, humid, wet, slippery, or noisy. Employees must wear role- and location-appropriate PPE. Starting compensation typically ranges from $22.28 to $24.42. The company describes a compensation and benefits package that includes competitive wages, benefits, bonuses, a matching 401(k), profit sharing, tuition assistance, vacation, holidays, dedicated sick time, and annual merit increases.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
Ability to perform essential job functions safely.
Availability to work Sunday through Saturday, off-shifts, weekends, holidays, and required overtime to support a 24-hour, seven-day operation.
Must be able to work a minimum of 8.5 hours.
Demonstrated ability to complete assignments accurately.
Good communication skills; able to read, write, and speak English.
Able to read, write, and perform intermediate mathematical calculations.
Ability to maintain accurate records.
Good time-management skills and ability to work independently without direct supervision.
Able to interpret data and make necessary decisions.
Ability to work in higher ambient temperatures and humidity and safely around chemicals.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to bend, squat, reach, climb stairs or ladders, stand, and walk throughout the shift.
Must be able to meet the position’s vision requirements, including close and distance vision, color and depth perception, and reading computer screens for extended periods.

Responsibilities

Inspect and adjust quantities of ingredients going into the cheese.
Check salt, powder, and modifier levels every hour.
Check ribbon thickness and moisture every hour and make necessary changes.
Obtain cheese temperatures, pH levels, and salt set points, and enter the information into the computer.
Inspect process equipment, including wet mixers, pre-heat tanks, dry mixers, extruders, lines 1 and 2, and slurry equipment.
Perform CIP and properly clean and sanitize equipment according to company procedures, applying appropriate chemical dosage.
Maintain good housekeeping and follow Good Manufacturing Practices.
Follow applicable safety rules and regulations and demonstrate safe work behaviors.
Communicate as required with supervisors, forepersons, other departments, and coworkers.
Maintain responsibility for food safety and food quality.
Perform other duties as assigned by forepersons and supervisors.