Whey Production Operator - Lactose and Protein Products

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

Whey Production Operator - Lactose and Protein Products

Full Time Regular Milbank, SD, US

Position Summary This is an entry-level manufacturing role where you will train on how to process, dry, and package whey products used in food production. You’ll learn different areas of the whey operation while working closely with experienced operators and supervisors. No prior whey experience is required—we provide training. This role supports safe production, product quality, and teamwork on the production floor.

What You’ll Do

• 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

Schedule

• Full-time, 12-hour shifts
• Rotating schedule, including weekends (Double time on Sunday!)

What We’re Looking For

• Reliable and team-oriented
• Willing to learn and take initiative
• Detail-focused and safety-minded
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment

This position does not supervise other employees.

Why Join Us?

• Career growth opportunities
• Predictable schedules — know your hours every week
• Clean, organized, food-grade environment (not a typical factory)
• Strong, stable local company
• Great people and team culture

Work Environment

• Food manufacturing facility
• Exposure to noise, moving equipment, vibration, and cleaning chemicals
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required

Qualifications

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

Other Information

This job description outlines the general nature of the role. Duties and responsibilities may change as needed to support operations.