Production Operator - 2nd Shift

Hours & Shift

This position consists of a four 10-hour schedule, Monday–Thursday from 1:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Please note that this plan may evolve as we continue to grow and adapt the Chilton start-up location.

Pay Range & Growth Opportunity

Pay Starting at $25.70/hour
Pay Premium: $3.00 per hour for night shift hours (6:00 PM – 6:00 AM)

Job Summary

Grande is now hiring for our brand-new state-of-the-art facility located in Chilton; an exciting opportunity to be part of building something from the ground up! As a 2nd Shift Production Operator, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the efficient and high-quality processing of dairy products by operating and maintaining intake and dairy equipment in alignment with Grande’s Operational Excellence principles. We’re looking for individuals with a strong understanding of lean manufacturing, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a focus on quality, safety, and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor equipment for optimal performance
• Conduct quality inspections and tests
• Troubleshoot issues
• Support lean initiatives such as Just-In-Time production, 5S, Kaizen, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)
• Maintain accurate records
• Adequately adhere to regulatory standards (ex. FDA, OSHA, USDA)
• Work cross-functionally to drive operational excellence in a dynamic, team-oriented environment

Why Grande?

To complement our industry-leading benefits, Grande puts an emphasis on your career growth opportunities, while always promoting a positive work/life balance and supporting the communities in which we live and work. If you want to learn more about our company – what we do and how we go about it – or learn more about our beautiful, state-of-the-art corporate headquarters, visit www.grande.com.

Why Chilton?

Located in the heart of Calumet County, Chilton blends small-town charm with big opportunity. With a cost of living 5% below the Wisconsin average and housing prices well below national levels, it’s an affordable and attractive place to live, work, and grow your career. Known for its safety, welcoming community, and strong local values, Chilton offers an ideal environment for those seeking to unwind, recharge, and embrace a relaxed and balanced lifestyle. Chilton also features easy access to parks and outdoor recreation, a walkable downtown with local dining and entertainment, and annual festivals that celebrate the area’s local culture and community spirit.

What You Need to Be Considered for the Role

• High School or GED
• 1-4 years of advanced manufacturing experience
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot dairy intake equipment
• Basic understanding of mechanical and control systems related to processing equipment
• Proficient in using computer systems for data entry and equipment monitoring
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities within a start-up environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to follow standard work, maintain a safe work environment, and address/correct deviations

Preferred

• Previous experience in dairy processing or food manufacturing environments preferred
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, especially high-performance work teams, is highly desirable
• Additional technical training or certifications in dairy processing, food technology, or related fields is a plus

Physical Demands and Work Conditions

This role requires the ability to regularly lift and move objects weighing between 20–50 lbs, as well as frequent walking, standing, bending, climbing, and exposure to vibration. The work environment may involve exposure to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold), high humidity, and loud machinery.