Lead Fermentation Operator

Chr. Hansen • West Allis, WI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Fermentation Operator is a hands-on operational and people-leadership role in a 24/7 manufacturing operation in West Allis, Wisconsin. The role coordinates work across the shift, coaches team members, and supports performance while helping ensure safe operations, high-quality output, and production schedules. The manufacturing environment is regulated and follows a safety-first and quality-always approach.

The position supports fermentation and downstream processes through task coordination, documentation, troubleshooting, training, audits, product trials, and continuous improvement. Work takes place in a factory environment that may be wet, loud, dusty, or extremely cold (down to -55°C), and may include clean-room conditions. The schedule follows a 7-on/7-off rotation, with 10-hour weekday shifts and 12-hour weekend shifts; the specific assignment is discussed during interviews. The hourly rate is $25–$32, based on experience.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong safety mindset and comfort working in a regulated manufacturing environment with strict sanitation and documentation requirements.
• Technical aptitude, including the ability to read detailed production journals, follow procedures, and perform basic metric math involving weights and volumes.
• Basic computer skills for navigating internal systems.
• Ability to communicate clearly, provide feedback, and support team performance on a night shift.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in regulated industries such as food, biotech, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing.
• Forklift or pallet walker experience; on-site training is available if needed.
• Interest in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or helping train and develop others.
• Curiosity and motivation to deeply understand processes, not just execute tasks.
• Experience with SAP or similar systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example with a safety-first, quality-always mindset and set clear expectations for the team.
• Identify, document, and help resolve process non-conformances, equipment failures, and inventory discrepancies using root-cause thinking and lean principles.
• Schedule and assign daily tasks, set priorities, and evaluate results in collaboration with supervisors and planning partners.
• Maintain accurate production, inventory, and process records using electronic MRP systems and document management tools.
• Support audits, training activities, new product trials, and continuous improvement initiatives across fermentation and downstream processes.
• Coordinate, coach, and support team performance across the shift.

Benefits

• 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution.
• At least 3 weeks of vacation, 12 holidays, and 2 weeks of Wellness Time.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Healthcare savings account option.
• Employee assistance program.
• Parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• All benefits begin on the first day.
• Structured training, cross-functional support, and opportunities to grow technical and leadership skills.

What This Job Offers

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