RO Operator

Dairy Farmers of America; Monroe (WI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America is seeking an experienced production operator to start up and run the whey processing (WPC) ultra-filtration system and related equipment according to schedule. This role requires hands-on experience with HTST and membrane systems, plus strong mechanical skills.

The position emphasizes adherence to GMP, safety regulations, and continuous improvement. Candidates must be able to work all shifts and overtime as needed, in a wet environment with moderate to high noise.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in a food manufacturing plant preferred.
• Certification and/or License may be required during employment.

Responsibilities

• Operate the WPC and starter process for cheese production per specifications.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of HTST and membrane processing systems from start to finish.
• Perform preventative maintenance on separators, clarifier, pumps, valves, and membrane system.
• Trace product flow through HTST, Ultra Filtration, and Reverse Osmosis systems.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes using continuous improvement mindset.
• Report any food safety and quality issues to management immediately.
• Maintain safe working conditions and comply with health, safety, and GMP requirements.
• Be willing to work all shifts and overtime, weekends, and holidays.

Skills

Lock-out/tag-out

Mechanical ability

Teamwork

Computer systems

Fast-paced environment

Communication

Math skills

Follow directions

Education

High school diploma or GED

Certification/licence may be required

Job description

*EXPERIENCED ONLY - CANDIDATES WITHOUT PRIOR DAIRY INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED*

General Purpose

Start up and operate the whey processing (WPC) ultra-filtration system and all other equipment as required by the production schedule.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• * Operate the WPC equipment and starter process for the making of cheese according to all specifications
• * Demonstrate good working knowledge of HTST systems and membrane processing systems and the flow process from start to finish
• * Complete preventative maintenance on separators, clarifier, pumps, valves, and membrane system
• * Trace product flow through all systems: HTST, Ultra Filtration system, and Reverse Osmosis system
• * Perform some work from the MSS of the dryer operators
• * Utilizing continuous improvement mindset, identify opportunities to improve processes
• * Report any food safety and food quality related issues to management immediately
• * Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• * Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
• * 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

Education and Experience

• * High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• * Warehouse, production, or general work experience preferred
• * Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• * Practical knowledge of lock-out tag-out procedures
• * Good mechanical ability
• * Able to effectively work in a team environment
• * Able to use company computer systems
• * Able to work in a fast-paced environment
• * Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• * Able to follow directions
• * Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals

Required

• A high school diploma or GED is preferred.
• 3 or more years of experience working in a food manufacturing plant preferred.
• Must be able to lift 40lbs
• Must be able to stand up to 8+ hours
• Candidates must possess solid mechanical skills and the ability to understand, operate, and troubleshoot production equipment.
• Must be able and willing to work all shifts and overtime, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able and willing to work in a wet environment with moderate to high noise volume.
• Must be able and willing to effectively work in a team environment.
• Must have effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, write and speak English and/or bilingual is preferred.
• Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans