Manufacturing - Packaging Machine Operator - Pouch Yogurt

Manufacturing - Packaging Machine Operator - Pouch Yogurt

Looking for a job that can grow into a lifelong career? At Lactalis USA, we believe in promoting from within and giving our employees meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or bringing years of experience, we’ll provide the tools and support you need to succeed.

Lactalis is the world leader in dairy—a family‑owned company with over 85,000 professionals across the globe. We produce award‑winning dairy products every day. In the US, we offer a house of beloved brands including Galbani® Italian cheeses, Président® specialty cheeses and butters, Kraft® natural cheeses, Break stone’s® cottage cheese, and many others. Our yogurt portfolio includes siggi’s®, Stonyfield Organic®, Brown Cow™, Oui®, Yoplait®, Go‑Gurt®, :ratio®, Green Mountain Creamery®, Mountain High®, sour cream, and a growing family of ethnic favorites.

At Lactalis, we live by our core values—
Ambition
, Engagement
, and Simplicity
. We’re building a workplace where innovation thrives, diverse perspectives are celebrated, and everyone’s unique background and ideas are valued.

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining yogurt packaging equipment to ensure the efficient and accurate manufacturing of yogurt products. This role involves overseeing the production line process, monitoring equipment performance, and adhering to quality and safety standards.

• 401(k) match up to 7% annually
• Referral bonus ($750–$1,500)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• FSA & HSA programs
• Education assistance program
• Paid time off including 7 core holidays, 2 floating holidays, 2 volunteer days, and prorated vacation up to 15 days
• Premium pay (overtime) on Sundays and core holidays
• Shift differentials: 2nd shift +10%, 3rd shift +15%
• Hourly rate starts at $20.90

• Operate yogurt packaging machines according to SOPs, including setup and adjustment before runs.
• Monitor and control filling weight, codes, seals, and lids/cups throughout the packaging cycle.
• Perform code and weight checks at specified intervals.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks—cleaning, sanitizing, replacing parts—to ensure optimal performance and food safety compliance.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions or process deviations, adjusting as needed.
• Conduct quality checks on batches at regular intervals to verify taste, texture, and adherence to specifications.
• Adhere to testing procedures and provide required samples to QA for appraisal prior to packaging of finished products.
• Maintain accurate production records, including batch records, equipment logs, and quality control documentation.
• Follow all safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
• Collaborate with supervisors, QA technicians, and maintenance staff to optimize processes and resolve issues.

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification in machine operation or food processing is a plus.
• Previous experience in a dairy processing or food manufacturing environment preferred.

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and repair equipment problems.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) in all units of measure, using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals; compute rate and percentage.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs and safety protocols.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Flexibility to work in a fast‑paced production environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Basic computer skills for record‑keeping and equipment monitoring.
• Ability to lift and move heavy objects and stand for extended periods.
• Travel for training is required.

• Seniority Level: Entry level
• Employment Type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job Function:
  Packaging
• Industry: Dairy Product Manufacturing

At Lactalis, we are an equal employment opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against applicants with regard to any legally‑recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disabilities.

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Lactalis U.S. Yogurt by 2x.