PRODUCTION CLASS 1 OPERATOR

Non-exempt production role in Arena, WI reporting to the Shift Supervisor.

About the role

Assist the production supervisor in daily activities to promote labor efficiency, champion quality and sanitary objectives, and support training needs. Perform duties related to assigned production areas, including monitoring milk/cheese processing quality, maintaining documentation, tracking inventory, operating and troubleshooting production equipment, and ensuring compliance with company standards.

Responsibilities

• Monitor milk/cheese processing quality, consistency, and ensure adherence to company quality and safety standards (e.g., moisture, temperature).
• Complete and maintain all required shift documentation (process charts, logs, cheese vat time schedules) and report shift inventory usage (MRP/ASC Track).
• Set up and operate production equipment such as pasteurizer, filler, flipper, and demolder in assigned areas.
• Report product abnormalities, equipment issues, or material problems to management immediately.
• Maintain proper machine functioning, perform troubleshooting, and clean equipment.
• Perform CIP (Clean-In-Place) setup as required.
• Key activities by area:
  • Packaging: Operate and set up packing machines with correct settings, film, materials, and labels; ensure proper package seal and food safety checkpoints.
  • Processing: Operate pasteurizer and homogenizer, set temperatures per PMO and company procedures, perform CIP, maintain process charts, and update receiving information in Excel.
  • Forming: Operate and configure V-Meg and mixer per product schedule, monitor moisture, and add components as required.
  • Shipping and Receiving: Monitor and receive milk/cream deliveries, perform antibiotic tests, follow procedures for incoming/outgoing shipments, order chemicals, and maintain receiving documentation in Excel.
  • All Areas: Communicate effectively with supervisors, drivers, employees, QA, and maintenance; troubleshoot machinery; operate handheld scanners; document and control product per specifications; comply with SQF policies, GMPs, sanitation procedures, and SOPs; take product samples as required.

Requirements

• Ability to lead groups and make decisions.
• Basic math skills and effective communication skills.
• Conversational Spanish preferred; ability to speak, write, read, and follow instructions in English (Spanish preferred).
• Qualified to perform duties of Class V, IV, III, and II roles.
• Chemical handling training (if assigned to areas requiring it).
• Forklift certification (if assigned to areas requiring forklift use).

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work in a food manufacturing environment with strict adherence to food safety, quality, and workplace safety standards, including required PPE.
• Exposure to variable temperatures, machinery noise, food ingredients, and sanitation chemicals.
• Stand or walk for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks, and lift up to 25–35 pounds regularly (occasionally up to 50 pounds with assistance).
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Schedule

6:00 PM – 2:00 AM, Monday through Friday.