Skilled Relief Operator

Saputo; Town of Friendship (NY); On-site; USD 35,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential

Job summary

Saputo is seeking skilled relief operators for milk receiving, vat setting and separator operations in a 24/7 dairy processing facility. You will safely operate equipment, follow procedures, and maintain accurate records while supporting production during absences or coverage gaps. The role requires at least two years in food manufacturing, strong math skills, and the ability to work the 6:00 p.m.

– 2:00 a.m. schedule with flexibility for call-ins.

Qualifications

• Strong math and measurement skills; able to follow procedures and schedules.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both verbal and written.
• Solid technical skills to operate controls, touch panels, pumps, valves and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide relief coverage for Milk Receiver, Vat Setter and Separator Operator positions on 6:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m. shifts and for call-ins.
• Receive incoming milk and dairy ingredients per procedures; verify load information and paperwork.
• 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; perform routine adjustments within procedures.
• Complete start-up, shutdown, changeover, cleaning and CIP tasks; collect samples for quality checks.
• Record logs, batch records and production reports accurately.
• Report any deviations or maintenance needs; comply with GMPs and safety requirements.
• Support audits and maintain housekeeping; adhere to Saputo Code of Ethics.

Skills

Math skills

English proficiency

Technical skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

SAP

ERP systems

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.

This is a union position. Wages, scheduling, seniority, job assignments, and other terms and