Skilled Relief Operator

Saputo, Inc.; Friendship (TN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. in Tennessee is hiring for Milk Receiving, Vat Setting and Separator Operations on the night shift. You will provide skilled relief coverage, safely operate dairy-processing equipment, and maintain accurate records.

This hands-on role requires a high school diploma, dairy experience preferred, strong math and English skills, and the ability to work 6:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m. with occasional call-ins.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of two years in food manufacturing; dairy experience preferred.
• Strong math and measurement skills; ability to follow formulas, production schedules and procedures.
• Strong technical skills to operate equipment controls, touch panels, pumps and valves.
• Ability to obtain powered industrial truck certification, if applicable.
• Strong verbal and written English communication.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel and ERP systems; SAP experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide relief coverage for Milk Receiver, Vat Setter, and Separator Operator positions.
• Receive incoming milk and dairy ingredients per procedures and verify paperwork.
• Report discrepancies or out-of-spec conditions promptly.
• Safely connect, operate and disconnect hoses, pumps, valves and transfer lines; monitor tanks and product movement.
• Set vats according to production schedule and formulas; monitor temperatures and timing.
• Operate separators and related equipment; make routine adjustments.
• Complete start-up, shutdown, changeover, clean-up and CIP tasks.
• Collect product samples and perform quality checks; report deviations.
• Accurately complete logs, batch records and production reports.
• Follow SOPs, GMPs, safety, and chemical handling requirements.

Skills

Math skills

English proficiency

Attention to detail

Following procedures

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

SAP

ERP systems

Microsoft Excel

Job description

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world. As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best?

Milk Receiving | Vat Setting | Separator Operations

Schedule: 6:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. Flexibility: Possible schedule flex to cover call-ins.

Pay Rate: $25.09 - $26.59/hour + $0.85 shift differential.

Position Summary

Perform skilled relief coverage across milk receiving, vat setting and separator operations. Safely and efficiently operate assigned dairy-processing equipment, follow established procedures, complete required records and support production needs when regular operators are absent or additional coverage is required.

Position Responsibilities

• Provide relief coverage for Milk Receiver, Vat Setter and Separator Operator positions, including coverage for scheduled absences, breaks and call-ins.
• Receive incoming milk and other dairy ingredients in accordance with established receiving, sampling, testing, documentation and unloading procedures.
• Verify load information, product identification, seals and required paperwork before unloading; promptly report discrepancies or out-of-specification conditions.
• Safely connect, operate and disconnect hoses, pumps, valves and transfer lines; monitor tanks, levels and product movement to prevent contamination, loss or overflow.
• Set vats according to the production schedule and approved formulas, including accurate ingredient additions, temperatures, timing and required processing steps.
• Operate separators and related processing equipment; monitor operating conditions and make routine adjustments within established procedures.
• Complete equipment start-up, shutdown, changeover, clean-up and sanitation tasks, including required clean-in-place procedures.
• Collect required product samples and complete routine quality and food safety checks; follow the established notification process for any deviation.
• Accurately and neatly complete receiving logs, batch records, production reports and other required documentation.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance checks; communicate mechanical or process concerns promptly.
• Follow all standard operating procedures, GMPs, food safety requirements, occupational health and safety procedures and chemical-handling requirements.
• Support internal and external audits, maintain good housekeeping and comply with applicable federal, state and local dairy food regulations.
• Cross-train as assigned and work professionally with production, quality, maintenance, warehouse and other department personnel.
• Adhere to the Saputo Code of Ethics and actively apply the Saputo values.
• Perform other duties as required by management.

Job Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of two years of demonstrated work experience in food manufacturing; dairy food manufacturing experience preferred.
• Strong math and measurement skills with the ability to follow formulas, production schedules and detailed written procedures.
• Strong technical skills and the ability to operate and understand equipment controls, touch panels, pumps, valves and mechanical operations.
• Ability to obtain required powered industrial truck certification, if applicable.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Good computer skills, including Microsoft Excel and ERP applications; SAP experience preferred.
• Demonstrated dependable work history and good attendance.
• Ability to work the regular 6:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. schedule and flex the schedule when needed to cover call-ins and operational needs.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Ability to work in a manufacturing environment that may include noise, changing temperatures, hot, wet, cold or humid conditions, and frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping and stair climbing. Ability to safely maneuver around processing and manufacturing equipment throughout the shift. Work in areas where noise may exceed 85 dB; hearing protection and other required personal protective equipment must be worn. Work with approved cleaning and processing chemicals while following required handling procedures. Ability to lift up to 45 pounds frequently and lift 50 pounds or more with assistance. Good visual acuity, including the ability to see and differentiate color. This is a hands-on role in a 24/7 manufacturing facility. Work hours may change to cover call-ins, vacations, absences, plant downtime, audits or other operational needs.

Saputo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

This is a union position.

In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands such as Stella, Frigo Cheese, Montchevre, Stella, and Treasure Cave. We also boast a strong foodservice presence, partnering with reputable chain restaurants and broadline distributors. Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success. You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help.

Accessibility Saputo Cheese USA Inc. endeavors to make Saputo.com/careers accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Human Resources at 214-863-2300 or email [e-mail]. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

EEO Saputo Cheese USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under law, please visit www.EEOC.gov.

California Applicant Privacy Notice (CCPA) To review the Saputo Cheese USA Inc. Privacy Notice for California applicants, please visit our Corporate website associated section by clicking here (English) or here (Spanish).

Making Good Food Is Our Passion, and we do it responsibly. Our caring teams process about 10 billion litres of milk annually into a diversified range of dairy and dairy alternative products sold in over 50 countries. With 54 manufacturing facilities and over 18,100 employees, we operate our leading business in Canada, the USA, Australia, and the United Kingdom. All dairy processors have access to the same raw material and equipment; what distinguishes us is our can-do spirit and our diverse, inclusive work culture that empowers employees to grow in their own way.

Stay in touch! Follow the hashtag #OurBestIsMadeOfYours on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.