Blend Operator - 1st Shift

About the role

Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) is a farmer-owned cooperative and one of the largest dairy companies in the world. We are committed to producing high-quality dairy products while supporting our farmer-owners, employees, and the communities where we live and work. Our people are the foundation of our success, and we value teamwork, integrity, safety, and continuous improvement. At our Green Bay facility, we produce processed cheese products, cheese sauces, cheese spreads, and non-dairy sauces and condiments that help support America's dairy farmers and customers nationwide.

Job Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate blending equipment and cheese grinder to prepare raw materials and ingredients according to batch specifications
• Open and handle various sizes of cheese and ingredient packages, using knives and cutting tools safely
• Accurately measure ingredients using scale systems and other devices, and perform basic math calculations for batching processes
• Read batch records, scan ingredient barcodes, and label batched ingredients with correct information to maintain accurate documentation
• Enter production data into SAP software and maintain complete shift pass-down communication with co-workers
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment to uphold food safety and operational standards
• Move pallets of ingredients and raw materials using manual or electric pallet jacks
• Assemble, disassemble, clean, and sanitize machinery and equipment following SSOPs, including COP (Clean Out of Place) and CIP (Clean In Place) processes, using steam hoses and chemicals as required
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, completing housekeeping checks and paperwork daily
• Assist in cooking process and other production areas as directed by leadership, demonstrating flexibility and teamwork
• Report food safety and quality concerns promptly to management and comply with GMP standards and company protocols

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• At least 1 year of manufacturing or machine operation experience
• Prior experience in a food production or packaging environment, or prior experience operating automated equipment
• Ability to read, comprehend, and accurately follow documents such as ingredient information and batch records
• Strong attention to detail to maintain accuracy in measurements and documentation
• Basic proficiency in math for measuring and recording ingredients, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals
• Ability to use basic computer software systems (such as SAP) to input and retrieve data
• Ability to apply practical problem-solving skills and follow detailed instructions in both written and verbal formats
• Ability to use sound judgment to handle routine issues within a standardized environment
• Proactive identification of safety and GMP opportunities and taking appropriate action
• Must be able to read, write, and speak English

Physical And Work Environment Requirements

• This position requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods, frequent use of hands, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Work is performed in a manufacturing and laboratory environment with exposure to temperature variations, noise, food products, food allergens, and cleaning chemicals
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required