Dairy Vat Operator - 12h Night Shift, HMI & Quality

Minerva Dairy; Ohio; On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Minerva Dairy is seeking an entry-level manufacturing technician to support the operation of four enclosed cheese vats. You will use HMI panels to fine-tune processes, follow SOPs for culture and rennet dosing, and monitor temperatures, pH, and whey drainage.

The role requires physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work in a dairy facility, and be willing to rotate 12-hour graveyard shifts with weekend work. Prior dairy exposure is a plus but not mandatory.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in food manufacturing is required; dairy or cheese-making experience is a plus but not required.
• Ability to produce accurate results, follow procedures, and uphold quality standards.
• Ability to operate automated machinery and navigate computer/HMI screens.
• Ability to perform basic calculations for ingredient additions and time tracking.
• Ability to scrutinize deviations in the cheese-making process.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor 4 cheese vats using HMI panels to fine tune the process.
• Review recipes and SOPs to ensure correct cultures, rennet and calcium chloride dosing and timing.
• Monitor milk temperature, cook temperatures, ramp rates, and pH; analyze processing results.
• Participate in Clean-in-Place (CIP) procedures and sanitary practices.
• Coordinate with Milk Intake and Downstream teams to keep vats on schedule and ensure food safety standards.

Skills

Food manufacturing

Dairy production

HMI operation

Automation

Time calculations

Deviation analysis

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

HMI panels

Job description

Minerva Dairy is seeking an entry-level manufacturing technician to support the operation of four enclosed cheese vats. You will use HMI panels to fine-tune processes, follow SOPs for culture and rennet dosing, and monitor temperatures, pH, and whey drainage.

The role requires physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work in a dairy facility, and be willing to rotate 12-hour graveyard shifts with weekend work. Prior dairy exposure is a plus but not mandatory.