Production Operator (1st Shift)

About the Role

Lactalis American Group, part of the Lactalis family of companies, is hiring a Production Operator based in Belmont, Wisconsin. Production team members are responsible for working in a variety of cheese-making production functions to ensure continuous and efficient line operation. This role is physical and fast-paced, requiring the ability to work over 40 hours per week (weekends are required).

Responsibilities

• Meet efficiency budget levels while maintaining high-quality product standards
• Remove and load trays/molds
• Stage bascular with appropriate cookie sheets
• Complete repetitive tasks, ensuring even spread of curd into molds
• Pull cheese onto draining room tables from chariot
• Ensure all whey pipes are properly hooked up
• Turn cheese in draining rooms
• Operate machines (e.g., stacker(s), unmolder, rack washer)
• Place racks on unmolding conveyor
• Weigh cheese
• Complete assigned paperwork accurately and legibly
• Maintain open communication with line workers and room supervisor
• Perform sanitation duties as assigned
• Keep work area clean and organized
• Report production problems or concerns to the on-duty supervisor
• Attend departmental meetings and training as assigned
• Apply safety rules and ensure they are followed
• Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards
• Perform other work duties as assigned

Requirements

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Good manual dexterity
• Able to push, pull, lift, and carry at least 30 pounds continuously and 50 pounds occasionally
• Able to stand for entire shift
• Able to perform repetitive movements (e.g., twisting, gripping, lifting, bending, reaching)
• High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) preferred
• Previous employment in a food industry setting preferred
• Stable and dependable work history required
• Basic mathematical skills (must be able to calculate averages)
• Vision abilities (close, distance, color, and ability to focus)

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Proactive and dynamic
• Flexible and receptive to new ideas
• Down-to-earth and pragmatic
• Analytical and attentive to detail
• Able to work independently while adhering to regulations
• Capable of managing stress and remaining calm under pressure
• Demonstrates an inquiring mind and well-developed observational skills
• Sense of responsibility and high professional standards
• Honesty, integrity, and objectivity

Pay

$24.55/hour or more, dependent upon skills and experience. Weekend pay includes a 20% premium (+$4.91/hr).

Schedule

6:00 AM to 2:15 PM (weekends required).

Benefits

• Comprehensive Total Rewards Program
• Affordable benefits and coverage options
• Significant employer support for insurance costs
• Generous contributions to retirement plans
• Paid Time Off from day one
• Training and development opportunities
• Education Reimbursement