Culinary - Chocolate and Bakery - Production Operator

Morkes Inc; Palatine (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Morkes Inc. in Palatine, IL is seeking a hands-on Culinary Production Operator to support daily prep, cooking, packaging, and quality control in a fast-paced chocolate production facility. You will follow standardized recipes, operate and monitor equipment, and help maintain strict food safety and sanitation standards.

A proactive, organized approach and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs are essential. Hours are primarily Monday through Friday, with Saturdays and some Sundays during peak seasons.

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and understanding of basic machine operations.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Ability to lift and handle materials up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work independently within established guidelines.
• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in daily preparation, cooking, packaging, and quality control.
• Operate and monitor production machinery according to procedures.
• Load raw materials and ensure proper material flow.
• Perform routine cleaning and minor maintenance.
• Uphold food safety and sanitation standards.
• Meet production goals while following safety guidelines.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Detail oriented

Follow instructions

Troubleshooting

Lift 50 lbs

Fast-paced environment

Food safety

Organization

Job description

Overview

Hands on chocolate making facility in operation since 1920. Looking for detailed, organized, clean, happy helper. Great potential for growth. Culinary experience a plus but not necessary. Able to lift up to 50 lbs. Hours are mainly Monday through Friday but Saturdays and some Sundays are needed during peak seasons.

Bring your creative side and see how we can grow. Our company offers an open minded, all-inclusive atmosphere with support for our honest, hardworking crew.

Responsibilities

The Culinary Production Operator is responsible for supporting the daily preparation, cooking, packaging, and quality control of food products in a commercial production environment. This role ensures standardized recipes are followed, production equipment operates safely and efficiently, and all operations comply with strict food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards. The position also involves operating and monitoring manufacturing-line equipment to maintain consistent product quality. Responsibilities include loading raw materials, adjusting machine settings, performing basic maintenance, conducting quality checks, and meeting production goals while adhering to all safety guidelines.

Ingredient & Recipe Preparation

• Accurately measure, weigh, and mix ingredients for large-scale production batches.
• Follow standardized recipes and production procedures consistently.

Machine Operation

• Set up, operate, and monitor assigned production machinery according to established procedures and specifications.
• Adjust machine settings as needed to maintain efficiency and product consistency.

Material Handling

• Load and supply raw materials to production equipment.
• Ensure proper material flow to prevent production interruptions.

Basic Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine cleaning and minor maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Replace worn parts when necessary and report potential mechanical issues.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and understanding of basic machine operations
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently within established guidelines
• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Physical ability to lift and handle materials up to 50lbs.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment
• Strong commitment to food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards.
• Organized.