Whey Production Operator: Entry‑Level Training & Growth

Valley Queen; Milbank (SD); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Valley Queen in Milbank, SD is seeking a Whey Production Operator to train on processing, drying, and packaging lactose and protein whey products for food production. This entry-level role offers on-the-job training with no prior whey experience required, focused on safe production, product quality, and teamwork on the production floor.

You will learn multiple whey processing tasks, assist with CIP cleaning, prepare and maintain equipment, monitor start-ups and shutdowns, perform routine

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must be able to maintain forklift certification.
• Must be at least 18 years old.

Responsibilities

• Learn and assist in multiple whey processing roles through on-the-job training.
• Support operators with equipment cleaning and sanitation (CIP).
• Help prepare, clean, and maintain processing equipment.
• Monitor basic process conditions during start-up, shutdown, and cleaning cycles.
• Perform routine cleaning and simple preventative maintenance tasks.
• Move finished products to storage areas.
• Safely handle cleaning chemicals using proper PPE.
• Complete production and quality paperwork accurately.
• Follow all food safety, quality, and safety procedures.
• Communicate with team members and supervisors to keep operations running smoothly.
• Participate in required safety and job training.

Skills

Reliability

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Detail-oriented

Safety-minded

Fast-paced environment

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

Valley Queen in Milbank, SD is seeking a Whey Production Operator to train on processing, drying, and packaging lactose and protein whey products for food production. This entry-level role offers on-the-job training with no prior whey experience required, focused on safe production, product quality, and teamwork on the production floor.

You will learn multiple whey processing tasks, assist with CIP cleaning, prepare and maintain equipment, monitor start-ups and shutdowns, perform routine