DAIRY PROCESS OPERATOR

Lifeway Foods Inc • Waukesha, WI

17h

About The Position

The Dairy Process Operator works in the Processing Department and is responsible for producing products in accordance with Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) and Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards, following Lifeway Wisconsin policies and procedures, and maintaining pasteurizers and related equipment in a dairy production environment. The role monitors and carries out dairy batching and processing, verifies sanitation and quality controls, documents production activity, and helps keep equipment operating safely and efficiently.

The operator follows applicable standard operating and sanitation procedures and requirements, including HACCP, FDA, EPA, OSHA, USDA, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, and customer requirements. The position also supports continuous improvement, reports safety or food safety concerns, and performs other assigned duties.

Requirements

• High school diploma, three to six months of related experience, or equivalent.
• Past experience in a food manufacturing facility.
• Demonstrated intellectual and interpersonal skills, including leadership, organization, and self-efficacy.
• Ability to read and write comprehensive reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals, and effectively present information to groups.
• Basic mathematical skills and understanding of algebra and geometry.
• Knowledge of manufacturing software, inventory software, and Microsoft Office, including Excel and Outlook.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, stand for the entirety of an eight-hour shift, climb ladders, and maneuver through equipment.

Responsibilities

• Follow Good Manufacturing Procedures for pasteurization and meet company Safe Quality Food standards.
• Monitor dairy production and follow Standard Operating Procedures for batching and processing products.
• Conduct pre-operational sanitation inspections of food processing areas, product-contact surfaces, and equipment.
• Monitor the pasteurization Critical Control Point.
• Monitor quality parameters such as culturing temperature and fat content.
• Complete required paperwork clearly, legibly, and accurately.
• Report unsafe conditions and food safety violations to the manager.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties.
• Maintain the preventive maintenance schedule for the department area.
• Operate equipment at recommended speeds and temperatures and communicate mechanical or operational defects.
• Operate and clean equipment promptly to minimize downtime.
• Help identify opportunities to improve processes.
• Perform duties according to SOPs and SSOPs and applicable quality and safety standards and requirements.
• Conduct behavior in compliance with Lifeway Employee Policy.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Nine paid holidays annually.
• Medical, vision, dental, life, and disability coverage.
• Flexible FSA and HSA options.
• Employee Assistance Program, including support for new parents, legal and financial advice, and mental health resources.
• 401(k) profit-sharing contribution match.
• Career growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED