Smokehouse Operator

What We Offer

• Associate training focused on developing practical skills
• Career advancement opportunities
• 20% Staff discount across all retail locations
• Health, vision and dental benefits 6 months after hire
• Employee Assistance Program
• Access to 24/7 virtual health care
• Deferred Profit Sharing Plan (DPSP)
• Access to corporate perks and benefits

The Smokehouse Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of smokehouses used in the production of European-style meats, including sausages, hams, and other cured and smoked products. This role ensures products are processed according to established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements.

• Operate smokehouses according to established recipes, processing parameters, and production schedules.
• Load and unload smokehouse racks safely and efficiently while maintaining product integrity.
• Monitor smoking, cooking, and chilling cycles to ensure products meet required specifications.
• Record and verify production data, including temperatures, cooking times, and process parameters.
• Verify product quality throughout the smoking and cooking process, including appearance, color, texture, and internal temperature.
• Ensure all products meet Company quality standards and customer specifications.
• Identify and report any quality concerns, equipment issues, or process deviations to supervisors.
• Follow all food safety, GMPs, and regulatory requirements.
• Perform routine inspections of smokehouses and related equipment.
• Complete weekly cleaning and sanitation of smokehouses and associated equipment according to sanitation procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Assist with general labour and production duties as needed.
• May assist with delegating and leading the team.
• Support other departments during peak production periods as needed.
• All other duties as assigned.

• Previous experience in food manufacturing, meat processing, or smokehouse operations is considered a strong asset.
• Understanding of food safety, sanitation, GMPs and HACCP principles.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to follow written recipes, procedures, and production schedules.
• Ability to lift and move products, racks, and materials in accordance with company safety guidelines.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift.
• Comfortable working in varying temperature environments, including hot and cold production areas.
• Ability to safely operate production equipment and work around smokehouse machinery.

• Manufacturing environment producing meat products.
• Exposure to smokehouse heat, humidity, cold storage areas, and food production environments.
• Early mornings start with flexible working hours.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to all company safety policies.
• Physically demanding and fast paced work environment.
• Repetitive use of hands for grasping, pushing, pulling and fine manipulation

We thank all applicants, however, only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. R. Denninger Limited is an equal opportunity employer and we value the importance of diversity and dignity in the workplace. If you are contacted by R. Denninger Limited regarding a job opportunity, please advise prior to the interview if you require accommodation and we will work with you to make appropriate arrangements.