Press Operator

Cold Hollow Cider Mill; Waterbury (VT); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury Center, Vermont is seeking a hands-on Machine Operator / Apple Press Operator to join our production team. You will operate and maintain equipment, with a primary focus on the Goodnature Maximizer press, contributing to fresh-pressed cider enjoyed across Vermont and beyond.

Ideal candidates have experience with food-production machinery, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.

Qualifications

• Experience operating food-production, agricultural or industrial machinery.
• Experience operating a Goodnature Maximizer press strongly preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to work independently while also being part of a production team.
• Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding production environment.
• Ability to lift, move and handle apples, equipment and production materials.
• Experience with cider production or similar production environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate the Goodnature Maximizer apple press safely and efficiently.
• Manage the complete apple-to-cider production process, including receiving, washing, grinding and pressing apples.
• Monitor equipment operation and make adjustments to maintain consistent production and cider quality.
• Maintain proper production flow and communicate with other members of the production team.
• Perform routine cleaning, sanitation and preventive maintenance of pressing and production equipment.
• Identify equipment issues and communicate maintenance needs promptly.
• Maintain a clean, organized and safe production area.
• Follow all food-safety, sanitation and workplace safety procedures.
• Assist with other production duties as needed throughout the cider-making operation.

Skills

Machinery operation

Mechanical troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Independent worker

Tools

Goodnature Maximizer press

Job description

Join the team at one of Vermont’s most iconic cider mills!

Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury Center is looking for a Machine Operator / Apple Press Operator to join our production team. This position is responsible for operating and maintaining our apple processing and cider production equipment, with a primary focus on running our Goodnature Maximizer apple press system.

This is a hands‑on position that plays an important role in producing the fresh‑pressed apple cider that Cold Hollow is known for throughout Vermont and beyond.

What You’ll Do

• Operate the Goodnature Maximizer apple press safely and efficiently.
• Manage the complete apple-to-cider production process, including receiving, washing, grinding and pressing apples.
• Monitor equipment operation and make adjustments to maintain consistent production and cider quality.
• Maintain proper production flow and communicate with other members of the production team.
• Perform routine cleaning, sanitation and preventive maintenance of pressing and production equipment.
• Identify equipment issues and communicate maintenance needs promptly.
• Maintain a clean, organized and safe production area.
• Follow all food‑safety, sanitation and workplace safety procedures.
• Assist with other production duties as needed throughout the cider‑making operation.

What We’re Looking For

Ideal candidates will have:

• Previous experience operating food‑production, agricultural or industrial machinery.
• Experience operating a Goodnature Maximizer press is strongly preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to work independently while also being part of a production team.
• Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, physically demanding production environment.
• Ability to lift, move and handle apples, equipment and production materials.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Experience with cider production, fruit processing, breweries, wineries, farms, food manufacturing or similar production environments is a plus.

The Job

This is a hands‑on production position where no two days are exactly the same. During Vermont’s busy apple season, production can be fast‑paced, and operators must be able to stay focused while maintaining high standards for safety, sanitation and quality.

The right person will take pride in operating equipment, solving problems and producing a high‑quality Vermont product.

Why Cold Hollow Cider Mill?

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a quintessential Vermont destination located in Waterbury Center, surrounded by the Green Mountains and close to Stowe and Interstate 89.

Our cider is made from Vermont apples and enjoyed by visitors from around the world. You’ll be joining a team that takes pride in Vermont agriculture, traditional cider making and creating an authentic Vermont experience for our guests.

Compensation & Schedule

• Position: Machine Operator / Apple Press Operator
• Location: Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Waterbury Center, Vermont
• Schedule: Seasonal/full‑time with potential for year‑round employment
• Hours: Primarily daytime production hours; schedule varies with production demands
• Pay: Competitive hourly wage based on experience
• Experience operating a Goodnature Maximizer: Preferred / highly valued