Bulk 1st Grinder Operator

Golden State Foods; Opelika (AL); On-site; USD 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Golden State Foods in Opelika, AL, is seeking a Bulk 1st Grinder Operator to join our protein production team on 1st shift. You will operate meat grinders, conveyors, and related equipment to process raw beef per strict quality and safety standards.

Ideal candidates are mechanically inclined with experience in food processing, equipment setup, and maintaining a clean work area. A high school diploma or GED is preferred, and forklift certification is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Prior experience in food manufacturing or meat processing is strongly preferred.
• Forklift certification preferred or willing to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Operate industrial meat grinders and conveyors per safety and quality standards.
• Follow safety procedures including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
• Set up and break down grinder and conveyor equipment.
• Read and follow raw material line‑up sheets for ingredient selection.
• Inspect raw materials and handle defects according to procedures.
• Monitor meat texture, grind quality, and grinder speed; adjust knives as needed.
• Use forklift to move materials and load onto equipment.
• Perform sanitation duties and maintain GMPs.

Skills

Procedures following

Reading comprehension

Mechanical aptitude

Lift 80 lbs

Cold environment

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

About Golden State Foods

Golden State Foods is a distinguished leader in the food service industry, offering an extensive array of products and services to a diverse clientele. Rooted in the values of quality service and integrity, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where employees can advance, innovate, and contribute to our ongoing success.

Job Title

Bulk 1st Grinder Operator

Location: Opelika, AL | Full-time | Food Manufacturing | 1st Shift

About the Role

We are hiring a Grinder Operator to join our protein production team at our state‑of‑the‑art food manufacturing plant in Opelika, AL. In this hands‑on role, you will operate meat grinders, conveyors, and related equipment to process raw beef according to quality and safety standards. This position is ideal for mechanically inclined individuals with experience in food processing, equipment setup, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

If you’re detail‑oriented, safety‑focused, and eager to join a company that values its people and its product, we encourage you to apply.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Operate industrial meat grinders and conveyor systems in accordance with food safety and quality standards
• Follow safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), to ensure safe operation of grinders and conveyors
• Set up and break down grinder and conveyor equipment, ensuring all parts are properly assembled and aligned
• Read and follow raw material line‑up sheets to ensure proper ingredient selection
• Inspect raw materials before grinding and follow established procedures for handling defects
• Monitor meat texture, cut quality, and grinder speed during production; adjust or replace knives and plates as needed
• Drive forklift to transport and load raw materials onto combo dumpers
• Perform sanitation duties, including cleaning equipment and immediate removal of floor scraps to prevent hazards
• Monitor and verify functionality of metal detectors and carry out procedures according to GSF’s metal detection program
• Communicate with the Blender Operator and other team members to coordinate workflow and product quality
• Recognize and report mechanical malfunctions or unsafe conditions to leadership
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
• Perform other duties as assigned to support 24/7 production operations

What You’ll Need

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Prior experience in food manufacturing or meat processing is strongly preferred
• Forklift certification preferred or willing to obtain

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to follow written procedures, line‑up sheets, and safety protocols
• Basic math and reading comprehension skills
• Mechanically inclined with the ability to identify equipment issues
• Ability to lift 80 lbs. and stand, bend, twist, and reach for long periods
• Comfortable working in cold (45°F or below), fast‑paced environments
• Attention to detail and commitment to safe, efficient operations

What You’ Ll Get

• People First:At GSF, we're not just a company; we're a dynamic community where your talents are celebrated, and your ambitions are nurtured.
• Values Driven: Our core values drive everything we do, creating a culture of innovation, integrity, and excellence. But we're not content with just being great; we strive for greatness in every aspect of our work.
• People Development: At GSF we strive to continually develop our people to prepare us all for the needs of tomorrow.
• Philanthropy & Sustainability: We're committed to making a difference beyond our walls through philanthropy and sustainability efforts across all our locations around the globe.
• Extensive Benefits:GSF believes in a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on the whole person with benefits that support those needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. GSF values diverse perspectives and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every person can thrive—respected, supported, and empowered. We believe diversity, in every form, strengthens our team and our communities.