HTST Operator

• Built on over a century of dedication, Maola is always looking ahead—investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and securing fresh, local dairy for the future.
• Join a farmer-owned cooperative rooted in integrity, sustainability, and a passion for providing fresh, high-quality Maola dairy products.
• We prioritize your well-being with competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with employer match, Life Insurance, paid time off, and more—available within your first month.
• Our employees are an integral part of who we are — what you do and what you think matters.

SUMMARY:

The HTST Operator is responsible for strictly adhering to all food safety, quality assurance, and GMP policies and procedures during processing. Under the supervision of the Production Supervisor, the HTST Operator will be responsible for ensuring all known pathogens are pasteurized and product is homogenized. This position is also responsible for running and maintaining pasteurizer and other related equipment within dairy production environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Responsible for batching and pasteurizing in the production of finished dairy goods.
• Closely monitor the dairy production process and follow Standard Operating Procedures for batching and processing products. Monitor fats, total solids, allergen, cryoscopy and other related items as they associate with processing dairy products; report any deficiencies.
• Ensure that all pre-operational, system start-up, and in-process monitoring activities are completed in accordance with the HACCP Plan.
• Operate homogenizing and pasteurizing equipment, make adjustments when necessary, and perform troubleshooting with ability to resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties.
• Follow mix batching schedule and ensure that all raw batching is competed in accordance to formulation and standards. Batch sheets will be the source of the formulation for all mixes.
• Ensure that all food safety, quality assurance, and GMP policies and procedures are strictly adhered to during the pasteurizing process.
• Maintain compliance and ensure that all raw ingredients and materials are handled in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations, internal food safety requirements, and organic requirements and in accordance with regulatory standards that are established by GMP, OSHA, FDA, WDATCP and USDA.
• Properly conduct and document the system verification and monitoring activities of the operation of HTST pasteurizer. Accurately prepare & maintain all area paperwork, legal charts & documents.
• Maintain sanitation of equipment including CIP/SIP & hand cleaning;
  Responsible for general housekeeping to ensure a clean, sanitary and safe work area.
• Monitor and operator water flush systems and air blows to ensure maximum butterfat recovery and minimize product loss.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma, general education degree (GED), or international equivalent.
• Previous manufacturing or food processing experience preferred.
• Prior experience with HTST systems/controls is preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret production schedules, thermometers, pressure gauges, and flow meters.
• Basic math and documentation skills.

COMPETENCIES

• Communication
  • Communicate clearly and effectively through multiple channels – oral, written, visual, and non-verbal – ensuring our messages are understood and delivered appropriately, whether in-person or digitally.
  • Take responsibility for actions and anticipate challenges before they arise.
  • Solve problems both within and outside of departments, proactively addressing issues as they occur.
• Customer Focused
  • Prioritize understanding and meeting both internal and external customer needs.
  • Ensure high levels of satisfaction and loyalty by anticipating customer requirements and striving for exceptional service.
• Initiative
  • Proactive in identifying opportunities and addressing potential threats.
  • Act independently and decisively, rather than…