Production Team Member - 1st Shift

At Emmi Roth, we’re passionate about creating exceptional cheeses. As a leader in the specialty cheese industry, we blend traditional craftsmanship with innovation, prioritize local sourcing and quality, and foster a collaborative, creative team environment. Joining us means working with some of the finest cheeses in the world while contributing to a company that values heritage, progress, and excellence.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the operation of machinery and equipment used in the cheese‑making process to ensure smooth operation and efficient production.
• Work closely with other production associates and team members to maintain workflow and meet production targets.
• Load and unload raw materials and cheese using food‑manufacturing equipment, including hoists and conveyor systems.
• Safely and efficiently move products and materials within the facility using electric pallet jacks, hand trucks, or other equipment.
• Set up equipment and materials so they are ready for production activities.
• Observe and monitor production lines to ensure smooth flow of operations.
• Conduct regular quality checks and complete quality documentation to ensure compliance with specifications and standards.
• Ensure accurate labeling and adherence to Affinage guidelines.
• Clean and maintain equipment, tools, and work areas following proper sanitation procedures.
• Adhere to ERU food‑safety policies and all government food‑safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., FDA, HACCP, GMP, OSHA).
• Follow safety guidelines, use personal protective equipment (PPE), attend safety and department meetings, and complete required training promptly.
• Identify and report potential safety hazards.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in cheese making or food manufacturing is preferred but not required.
• Ability to safely operate electric pallet jacks.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions.
• Basic arithmetic skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division of whole numbers).
• Attention to detail and commitment to high‑quality products.
• Physical stamina for demanding tasks, including lifting heavy objects and standing for extended periods.
• Capability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Adaptability to a fast‑paced environment and willingness to work overtime or extended shifts as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Constant use of hands and fingers to handle objects and controls.
• Occasionally required to carry up to 40 lb; constantly lift/move up to 30 lb; occasionally lift/move up to 50 lb.
• Occasionally push or pull with a maximum force of 40 lb.
• Constantly required to stand, reach, walk, bend, twist, and squat.
• Constantly required to talk and hear.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus (with or without correction).
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Work Environment

• Constant exposure to moderate noise levels.
• Constant exposure to wet, humid, slippery, and cold conditions.
• Occasional exposure to food‑grade chemicals for sanitation.
• Frequent exposure to odors and air particulates from cheese making and aging.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Basic and voluntary life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts & health savings accounts
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid holidays and paid vacation
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage
• Volunteer time off (VTO)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Pet insurance