Pasteurizer

SIGMA; California (MO); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Los Altos Foods is seeking a Pasteurization & Whey Process Operator to oversee pasteurization and whey processing operations, ensuring product quality and compliance with food safety standards. You will monitor process parameters, maintain sanitary conditions, and document production activities.

This hands-on role requires operating processing equipment, QA testing, and collaboration with supervisors to drive efficiency and continuous improvement in a fast-paced dairy environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in a food production or manufacturing environment.
• State Pasteurization License and State Sampler License required.
• Knowledge of SQF Code and food safety systems.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail and time management.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor pasteurization and whey processing equipment.
• Conduct quality assurance testing on materials and finished products.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation per SOPs and HACCP.
• Document production data and process parameters accurately.
• Troubleshoot issues and report deviations.
• Support continuous improvement for process efficiency.
• Follow GMPs, SOPs, SSOPs, and safety regulations.
• Communicate production status to supervisors.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support plant operations.

Skills

SQF Code knowledge

Food safety systems

Quality control understanding

Communication skills

Ability to follow instructions

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Math skills

Equipment operation

Education

High school diploma

GED

State Pasteurization License

State Sampler License

Tools

Pasteurization equipment

Whey processing equipment

Sanitation equipment

Job description

Join our amazing family of professionals at Sigma! We believe in truly taking care of our associates to ensure they feel empowered to be their best selves at work. You are not just applying for a job - this is the start of a rewarding career with a fast growing, innovative global food organization. This opportunity is based onsite at Los Altos Foods, a proud part of Sigma and a leading manufacturer of authentic Mexican cheeses and dairy products. For decades, Los Altos Foods has been dedicated to producing high-quality products such as Queso Fresco, Oaxaca, Cotija, Crema Mexicana, and other traditional Hispanic dairy products enjoyed across the country. Our commitment to quality, food safety, innovation, and tradition has made us a trusted name in the dairy industry. At Los Altos Foods, we foster a collaborative, team-oriented culture where employees are valued, supported, and encouraged to grow professionally. We believe our success comes from individuals who take pride in precision, safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. If you are looking for a hands-on technical role where your work directly impacts product quality and food safety, we invite you to come join our table!

POSITION SUMMARY

This role is responsible for overseeing pasteurization and whey processing operations to ensure optimal efficiency, product quality, and compliance with food safety standards. The position plays a critical role in maintaining sanitary conditions, monitoring production parameters, and ensuring all regulatory and company requirements are met. The Pasteurization & Whey Process Operator is responsible for operating specialized processing equipment, performing quality assurance testing, and ensuring accurate documentation of all production activities. This role is essential to maintaining safe, high-quality dairy production and supporting overall plant performance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Operate and monitor pasteurization and whey processing equipment to ensure proper function and product quality.
• Conduct quality assurance testing on raw materials, in-process product, and finished goods.
• Sanitize equipment and maintain strict cleanliness standards in accordance with food safety requirements.
• Document and record all operational data accurately, including process parameters and quality results.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and report equipment or process deviations to management promptly.
• Support continuous monitoring of process efficiency and assist in identifying improvement opportunities.
• Follow all GMPs, SOPs, SSOPs, HACCP principles, and SQF requirements.
• Maintain compliance with all safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and management regarding production status and issues.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support plant operations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in a food production or manufacturing environment.

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS

• State Sampler License required.
• State Pasteurization License required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Knowledge of SQF Code and food safety systems.
• Strong understanding of food production processes, equipment, and industry standards.
• Familiarity with quality control standards and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of chemical handling and sanitation procedures.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately and work independently or as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Good decision making, time management, and problem solving abilities.
• Basic math skills required.
• Ability to operate and understand food processing equipment safely and effectively.
• Ability to support or motivate team members when needed.

ENVIRONMENTAL / WORKING CONDITIONS

Work in environments with varying temperatures, including hot and cold conditions (up to approximately 90°F or higher). Exposure to cleaning chemicals, sanitation agents, dust, fumes, and food processing environments. Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirators or masks, and protective footwear. Work may be performed in loud production environments with machinery and equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Frequent standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. Ability to use hands and arms for operating machinery and equipment. Occasional lifting and/or moving of up to 25 lbs. Close vision, color vision, depth perception, and focus required. Exposure to moving mechanical parts, chemicals, fumes, and airborne particles. Strong communication ability, including verbal and auditory interaction in a production environment. Ability to work in environments ranging from office-level noise to loud industrial settings.