HTST/RO Operator

dfa; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

The HTST/RO Operator at dfa in Houston, TX will start up and operate HTST pasteurization and RO filtration systems to ensure safe, high-quality milk and whey products. You will monitor temperatures, pressures, and flow, conduct QA tests, document data and maintenance, perform basic equipment care, and follow strict sanitation and safety procedures.

This role may require bilingual communication and strict adherence to food safety regulations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 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.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Start up and operate HTST pasteurization equipment according to production schedules, monitoring temperature, pressure, and flow rates.
• Operate and monitor RO ultrafiltration systems, including starting up, bringing down, and CIP.
• Conduct routine quality checks on pasteurised and RO-treated products, including butterfat analysis and titration.
• Record and document process data, maintenance activities, and quality control results.
• 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.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and assist in resolving production problems with QA, maintenance, and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures

Mechanical aptitude

Read and interpret schematics

Process control computer systems

Attention to detail

Work in fast-paced environment

Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred

Documentation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certifications or vocational training in food processing

Job description

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 pasteurised 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

• 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.