HTST/RO Operator

La Vaquita Cheese; Houston (TX); Presencial; USD 25.000 - 36.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

La Vaquita Cheese in Houston, TX seeks an HTST/RO Operator to manage pasteurization and ultrafiltration systems in our dairy facility. You will monitor temperatures, pressures, and flows to ensure safe, high-quality milk and whey products.

Responsibilities include QA checks, data recording, CIP cleaning, basic maintenance, and sanitation. Proficiency with schematics, lock-out/tag-out safety, and bilingual English/Spanish is valued in our fast-paced environment.

Formación

• Lock-out/tag-out safety procedures knowledge and practice.
• Mechanical aptitude for monitoring and adjusting equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret equipment schematics.
• Proficiency with computer systems for process control and records.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred in multi-language environments.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced setting and follow instructions.

Responsabilidades

• Start up and operate HTST pasteurization equipment according to production schedules.
• Operate and monitor RO ultrafiltration systems, including CIP.
• Conduct routine quality checks on pasteurized and RO products; perform butterfat analysis and QA tests.
• Record and document process data, maintenance activities, and QA results accurately.
• Perform basic maintenance and report major issues to maintenance staff.
• Follow strict sanitation procedures to keep equipment and areas clean.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and assist in resolving production problems with QA and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Conocimientos

Lock-out/Tag-out

Mechanical aptitude

Interpret schematics

Use computer systems

Attention to detail

Bilingual English/Spanish

Fast-paced environment

Educación

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certifications or vocational training in food processing

Descripción del empleo

An HTST/RO Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining both High-Temperature Short-Time (HTST) pasteurization systems and Reverse Osmosis (RO) ultrafiltration systems in dairy processing plants. This role ensures that milk and whey products are safely processed, meet quality standards, and comply with food safety regulations.

• 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

Requirements

Practical knowledge of lock-out/tag-out safety procedures

Good mechanical aptitude and 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 follow instructions effectively

Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred for communication in multi-language work environments

High school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or vocational training in food processing or related fields are a plus

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans