Skilled Relief Operator

Saputo•Friendship, NY

11d

About The Position

Perform skilled relief coverage across milk receiving, vat setting, and separator operations. Safely and efficiently operate assigned dairy-processing equipment, follow established procedures, complete required records, and support production needs when regular operators are absent or additional coverage is required. This is a hands-on role in a 24/7 manufacturing facility, with a regular schedule of 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Schedule flexibility may be needed to cover call-ins and other operational needs. This is a union position; wages, scheduling, seniority, job assignments, and other employment terms are governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement. The position involves working in a manufacturing environment that may include noise, changing temperatures, hot, wet, cold, or humid conditions. Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, and stair climbing are required, as is safely maneuvering around processing equipment. Noise may exceed 85 dB, requiring hearing protection and other personal protective equipment. The role also involves approved cleaning and processing chemicals, lifting up to 45 pounds frequently, and lifting 50 pounds or more with assistance.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least two years of demonstrated work experience in food manufacturing.
Strong math and measurement skills, including the ability to follow formulas, production schedules, and detailed written procedures.
Strong technical skills and the ability to operate and understand equipment controls, touch panels, pumps, valves, and mechanical operations.
Ability to obtain required powered industrial truck certification, if applicable.
Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
Good computer skills, including Microsoft Excel and ERP applications.
Dependable work history and good attendance.
Ability to work the regular 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. schedule and flex the schedule when needed to cover call-ins and operational needs.
Ability to work in conditions that may include noise, changing temperatures, and hot, wet, cold, or humid environments; frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, and stair climbing; and safe movement around processing equipment.
Ability to work in areas where noise may exceed 85 dB and wear hearing protection and other required personal protective equipment.
Ability to handle approved cleaning and processing chemicals according to required procedures.
Ability to lift up to 45 pounds frequently and lift 50 pounds or more with assistance.
Good visual acuity, including the ability to see and differentiate color.

Nice To Haves

Dairy food manufacturing experience.
SAP experience.

Responsibilities

Provide relief coverage for Milk Receiver, Vat Setter, and Separator Operator positions, including scheduled absences, breaks, and call-ins.
Receive incoming milk and other dairy ingredients according to receiving, sampling, testing, documentation, and unloading procedures.
Verify load information, product identification, seals, and paperwork before unloading, and report discrepancies or out-of-specification conditions.
Safely connect, operate, and disconnect hoses, pumps, valves, and transfer lines; monitor tanks, levels, and product movement to prevent contamination, loss, or overflow.
Set vats according to production schedules and approved formulas, including ingredient additions, temperatures, timing, and processing steps.
Operate separators and related processing equipment, monitor operating conditions, and make routine adjustments within established procedures.
Perform equipment start-up, shutdown, changeover, clean-up, and sanitation tasks, including required clean-in-place procedures.
Collect product samples and complete routine quality and food safety checks; follow established notification processes for deviations.
Complete receiving logs, batch records, production reports, and other required documentation accurately and neatly.
Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance checks; promptly communicate mechanical or process concerns.
Follow standard operating procedures, GMPs, food safety requirements, occupational health and safety procedures, and chemical-handling requirements.
Support internal and external audits, maintain good housekeeping, and comply with applicable federal, state, and local dairy food regulations.
Cross-train as assigned and work professionally with production, quality, maintenance, warehouse, and other department personnel.
Adhere to the Saputo Code of Ethics and apply Saputo values.
Perform other duties as required by management.