Dairy HTST & RO Operator - Quality & Process Specialist

La Vaquita Cheese; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

DFAMILK is seeking an HTST/RO Operator to operate and maintain pasteurization and RO systems in a dairy processing plant. You will monitor temperatures, pressures, and flows and perform QA tests on finished products.

The role requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to read schematics. Bilingual Spanish/English is preferred; safety and sanitation are essential in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications in food processing or related fields are a plus.
• Practical knowledge of lock-out/tag-out safety procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret equipment schematics.
• Ability to use computer systems for process control and documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety and quality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and followInstructions effectively.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred for communication in multi-language work environments.

Responsibilities

• Start up and operate HTST pasteurization equipment according to production schedules, monitoring temperature, pressure, and flow rates to ensure proper heating, holding, and cooling of milk.
• Operate and monitor RO ultrafiltration systems, including starting up, bringing down, and cleaning-in-place (CIP) the system.
• Conduct routine quality checks on pasteurized and RO-treated products, including butterfat analysis, titration, and other QA tests.
• Record and document process data, maintenance activities, and quality control results accurately and in compliance with legal and company requirements.
• Perform basic maintenance and minor repairs on HTST and RO equipment; report major issues to maintenance staff.
• Follow strict sanitation procedures to keep equipment and work areas clean, reducing contamination risks.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and assist in resolving production problems with QA, maintenance, and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations, and maintain a safe workplace.

Skills

Lock-out/Tag-out

Mechanical aptitude

Reading schematics

Process control software

Attention to detail

Bilingual (Spanish/English)

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Technical certifications in food processing

Job description

DFAMILK is seeking an HTST/RO Operator to operate and maintain pasteurization and RO systems in a dairy processing plant. You will monitor temperatures, pressures, and flows and perform QA tests on finished products.

The role requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to read schematics. Bilingual Spanish/English is preferred; safety and sanitation are essential in a fast-paced environment.