Master Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.; Green Bay (WI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vis

401(k) with company match

Generous vacation and sick time

7 paid holidays annually

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) at our Green Bay facility manufactures and packages dairy and non-dairy sauces, including queso, BBQ, icing, and marinara. The team supports both refrigerated and shelf-stable products with a focus on quality, safety, and consistency.

The role involves operating and providing relief coverage for multiple advanced production operations, including blending, cooking, and filling, while ensuring continuous plant performance and compliance with GMP and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Experience: At least 2 years of manufacturing or machine operation experience, preferably in food production or packaging
• Experience with automated filler equipment and cooking/blending systems required

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor multiple filler and blending systems to meet production and quality standards
• Weigh, stage, prepare ingredients, load packaging materials, and record batch data
• Adjust machine settings and batch formulas to maintain specifications and optimize performance
• Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate with Maintenance for repairs
• Perform quality checks and collect samples for testing (pH, moisture, viscosity, packaging)
• Execute product changeovers and sanitation tasks per COP/CIP and SSOPs
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and comply with GMP and safety requirements
• Mentor and train other operators and share knowledge across production areas

Skills

Attention to detail

Reading comprehension

Math literacy

English proficiency

Mentoring/train others

Problem solving

Communication

Leadership

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

HMI control panels

Company software systems

Job description

About Dairy Farmers of America:
Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) is a farmer‑owned cooperative and one of the largest dairy companies in the world. We are committed to producing high‑quality dairy products while supporting our farmer‑owners, employees, and the communities where we live and work. Our people are the foundation of our success, and we value teamwork, integrity, safety, and continuous improvement.

At our Green Bay facility, we produce and package dairy and non‑dairy sauces, including queso, BBQ, icing, and marinara, for our customers across the country. Our team supports both refrigerated and shelf‑stable products that are made with a focus on quality, safety, and consistency.

• $26.00 per hour
• 1st shift - 4:50am-1:00pm, Monday through Friday
• Overtime is required based on business and production needs and is typically planned and posted in advance
• Job Location: 1552 Lineville Road, Green Bay, WI 54313

Position Summary:

Operate and provide relief coverage for multiple advanced production roles, including blending, cooking, and filling operations, to maintain efficient and continuous plant performance. Oversee and monitor equipment across various processes, performing adjustments, troubleshooting, and quality checks to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards. Execute product changeovers, sanitation tasks, and documentation requirements while maintaining a clean and organized work environment. Support training efforts and serve as a technical resource across production areas, demonstrating flexibility and proficiency with all machines and multiple processing systems.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor multiple filler and blending systems, including HMI-controlled equipment, to achieve production and quality standards
• Weigh, stage, and prepare ingredients, load packaging materials, and accurately record batch and production data in company systems
• Adjust machine settings and batch formulas to maintain product specifications and optimize performance across all machines and processing systems
• Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment issues, perform minor mechanical adjustments, and coordinate with Maintenance for complex repairs
• Perform quality checks and collect samples for testing, including pH, moisture, viscosity, and packaging integrity
• Execute product changeovers and sanitation tasks, including disassembly, cleaning, sanitizing, and reassembly of equipment; run COP (Clean Out of Place) and CIP (Clean In Place) processes following SSOPs
• Maintain a clean, organized work environment and comply with GMP, food safety, and regulatory requirements
• Communicate effectively with leadership and quality teams regarding production or quality concerns
• Mentor and train other operators, sharing technical knowledge and supporting continuous improvement initiatives
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• At least 2 years of manufacturing or machine operation experience, preferably in food production or packaging required
• Prior experience operating automated filler equipment and cooking/blending systems required

Qualifications:

• Ability to read, comprehend, and accurately follow complex production documents, batch records, and equipment settings
• Strong attention to detail to maintain accuracy in machine adjustments, measurements, documentation, and quality checks
• Proficiency in basic math for calculating fill volumes, machine speeds, cook times, and verifying product specifications
• Ability to operate and navigate HMI control panels and company software systems for data entry and monitoring
• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot equipment issues, perform minor mechanical adjustments and communicate effectively with Maintenance
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment, adapt to changing priorities, and lead by example
• Ability to mentor and train other operators, sharing technical knowledge and best practices across multiple production areas
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

Benefits and Perks:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous vacation time and sick time
• 7 paid holidays annually
• Career advancement and training opportunities within a stable, growing organization
• Paid uniforms, safety toe shoes, and prescription safety eyewear
• Benefits available following eligibility requirements

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of post-offer, pre-employment requirements, which may include a background check, employment and education verification, and a drug screen, as permitted by law. Verification of eligibility to work in the United States is required. Dairy Farmers of America complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding pre-employment screening and employment eligibility.

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

Pay Range

$26.00 / hour

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

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