Operator, Filling Machine

Meadow Gold Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers. Our mark represents the wholesomeness of dairy that we share with our communities and loved ones. DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream, and dairy ingredients under well-known regional brands.

About the role

We are seeking well-versed Machine Operators to perform an array of functions including maintaining, breaking down, and setting up equipment and machinery, while troubleshooting and resolving basic to moderate operating issues. Operators will process finished or raw materials, run and monitor two machines, follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and communicate effectively with all departments to meet daily deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Clean, set-up, operate, and monitor equipment of the production line
• Complete all required documentation and scheduled quality checks
• Monitor weights, seals, caps, and general packaging of product
• Make adjustments to filler timing and filling; check mat as needed
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties
• Collect required samples needed for quality assurance testing
• Ensure that the proper packaging materials are used for each product being produced
• Watch for jams on the label operator and effectively thread wrap to prevent downtime due to error
• Perform filler and filler line changeovers in a safe and efficient manner
• Complete cleaning checklist once line has completed run
• Prepare equipment for next run to include size changes as needed
• Maintain communication with other departments, supervisor, and employees and notify them of any problems and/or concerns that may restrict the efficiency of production
• Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with SOPs
• Utilize a continuous improvement mindset to assist in identifying opportunities to improve processes
• Report any food safety and food quality related issues to management immediately
• Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measurement, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals
• Must pass all pre-employment screenings including drug, background, and criminal checks
• Ability to push, pull, stand, walk, climb, crouch, and lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work in a wet environment
• May have some exposure to dust, fumes, and cleaning chemicals
• Willingness to work flexible hours including overtime as required, occasional weekends, and holidays
• Ability to read, write, and speak English

Pay

$26.72/hour to start, with an increase to $29.69 within the first year. Shift differential for overnight shifts.

Schedule

Monday - Thursday 10:00 PM - 6:30 AM, with 2:00 AM start time on Saturdays.

Benefits

• Union pension plan
• Competitive pay
• Paid sick leave
• Yearly increases
• Career growth opportunities — we promote from within
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits