Whey Operator

Saputo, Inc.; Friendship (TN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. is hiring for Semi-Skilled Labor to support production lines with safe, efficient operations and strict adherence to SOPs. Responsibilities include hand-stacking, case packing, tooling setup, and accurate recordkeeping in a fast-paced dairy environment.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or 1 year of relevant experience, strong math/computer skills (SAP a plus), and reliable attendance. Pre-employment screening and background checks are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, or 1 year of relevant work experience.
• Preferred: Experience in food manufacturing, warehousing, or dairy production.
• Strong math and computer skills (SAP experience is a plus).
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Consistent and reliable attendance is required.

Responsibilities

• Provide safe and efficient production support, including hand-stacking, case packing, housekeeping, product conveying, and reclaim.
• Follow SOPs in detail without deviation.
• Set up packaging coders and validate product codes per specifications.
• Identify and report out-of-specification product conditions following notification protocols.
• Perform routine equipment adjustments using hand tools.
• Safely operate a lift truck to move materials as needed.
• Accurately complete production records and documentation.
• Assist with equipment changeovers, CIP/SIP, clean-up, and setup.
• Perform department environmental controls and product reclaim/rework operations.
• Package and stack products.
• Support internal and external audits.
• Follow all occupational health and safety procedures, GMPs, and food safety requirements.
• Cross-train with other departments.
• Maintain clean work areas within established housekeeping guidelines.
• Adhere to the Saputo Code of Ethics, Company Values, and Workplace Climate Policy.
• Work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

Skills

SAP experience

Math skills

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

1 year relevant work experience

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?

Position: Semi-Skilled Labor Pay Range: $23.48 – $24.98/hour

Key Responsibilities

• Provide safe and efficient production support, including hand-stacking, case packing, housekeeping, product conveying, and reclaim.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) in detail without deviation.
• Set up packaging coders and validate product codes per specifications.
• Identify and report out-of-specification product conditions following notification protocols.
• Perform routine equipment adjustments using hand tools.
• Safely operate a lift truck to move materials as needed.
• Accurately complete production records and documentation.
• Assist with equipment changeovers, CIP/SIP, clean-up, and setup.
• Perform department environmental controls and product reclaim/rework operations.
• Package and stack products.
• Support internal and external audits.
• Follow all occupational health and safety procedures, GMPs, and food safety requirements.
• Cross-train with other departments.
• Maintain clean work areas within established housekeeping guidelines.
• Adhere to the Saputo Code of Ethics, Company Values, and Workplace Climate Policy.
• Work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

Job Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent, or 1 year of relevant work experience.
• Preferred: Experience in food manufacturing, warehousing, or dairy production.
• Strong math and computer skills (SAP experience is a plus).
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Consistent and reliable attendance is required.

Physical Demands

• Work in environments with noise, temperature changes (hot, cold, wet, humid), and around manufacturing equipment.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, and stair climbing.
• Manual dexterity, gripping, squeezing, and fine manipulation.
• Visual acuity and ability to distinguish colors.
• Work with chemicals using PPE and approved handling procedures.

You Are Best Suited for This Role If You…

• Have a strong work character and team-oriented mindset.
• Have a strong work ethic and passion for the job.
• Can multitask and follow instructions accurately.
• Are self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Are detail-oriented with strong organizational and critical thinking skills.

We Support and Care for Our Employees By Providing…

• Development opportunities that enhance your career fulfillment.
• Meaningful compensation and benefits to support your family.
• Opportunities to contribute to your community through Saputo products.

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.