Protein Plant Operator (Nights)

Hilmar Cheese Company Inc.•Dodge City, KS

33d•$24 - $29

About The Position

The Protein Plant Operator is responsible for assuring product quality while operating reverse osmosis (RO), evaporator, and RO water polisher units in production and during clean-in-place (CIP). The role supports food safety, sanitation, quality, and production programs at Hilmar Cheese Company. Employees are expected to participate in training and development, help coach and train teammates, and contribute to team and safety activities. This description is general and may include other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Proficient English skills to understand, read, write, and speak English.
Basic computer skills.
Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
Ability to lift up to 60 pounds.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution.
SAP experience.
Dairy manufacturing experience.
Active or past membership on a departmental safety team.
Skill as a Packaging Operator or General Sanitation (Level 1).

Responsibilities

Operate evaporator, permeate, and polishing RO systems, including production, CIP, and associated equipment.
Maintain accurate and complete paperwork.
Follow Good Manufacturing Procedures and understand sanitation related to CIP, COP, and cleanup.
Maintain and monitor quality-control and production programs according to Hilmar Cheese & Ingredient standards.
Complete and respond to in-process testing.
Communicate and work effectively with team members to help achieve department goals.
Relieve operators for breaks and lunch periods or when needed.
Perform assigned master sanitation program duties.
Participate in department activities, including GMP audits, behavior sampling, safety audits, accident investigations, management presentations, and follow-up on outstanding work orders.
Promote and follow the Company Hygiene Zoning Program.
Participate actively in the training and development program and associated activities, classes, and events, including those held before, during, and after shifts or on scheduled days off.
Coach and train teammates and participate in on-the-job buddy training.
Follow food safety and sanitation policies and procedures; communicate food safety incidents, observations, and opportunities; and participate in root-cause analysis and improvement activities when required.
Prioritize safety, report safety issues and opportunities, and follow up with the team.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Production Supervisor.