Dairy Processing Operator

Dairy Processing Operator I Full-Time

North Smithfield, RI
On-site
$19-$25 per hour

The Dairy Processing Operator is responsible for operating either the HTST pasteurization system or the filling line, depending on the day's assignment. When assigned to the pasteurizer, the operator ensures finished products are properly pasteurized, pathogen-free, and meet food safety standards. When assigned to the filling line, the operator ensures product is properly filled, packaged, and labeled in accordance with food safety and regulatory standards.

This position plays a key role in producing high-quality milk and cream for retail, wholesale, and in-house bakery use. This is the highest station level in the dairy department, and the operator is expected to know and be able to work all stations, moving between pasteurization, filling, and general dairy support duties (including moving product, restocking, and supporting the wholesale team) as scheduled or as production needs require.

As a member of the dairy team, the Dairy Processing Operator helps maintain a safe, sanitary, and collaborative work environment, with a shared goal of delivering exceptional dairy products to our customers.

• The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
• Operate and monitor the HTST pasteurization system, separator, homogenizer, blending tanks, pumps, and related dairy processing equipment.
• Ensure compliance with pasteurization standards and appendix N testing.
• Accurately verify and record temperature readings and pasteurization charts.

• Clean, set up, operate, and monitor the filler, capper, and associated production equipment.
• Make necessary adjustments to the filler and capper to ensure a consistent, high-quality product with minimal downtime.
• Ensure appropriate packaging materials are used for each product, and perform safe, efficient filler and filler-line changeovers.
• Complete cleaning checklists after production runs, prepare equipment for the next run, and restock packaging materials to maintain production flow for the next shift.

• Perform and document Clean-in-Place (CIP) cycles, SSOPs, and manual equipment cleaning for the HTST system, pasteurized tanks, filler, and related machinery.
• Ensure proper use of cleaning chemicals and sanitation protocols.
• Uphold all food safety and quality standards; report concerns immediately to management.

• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for batching, processing, pasteurization, and filling.
• Monitor critical control points to ensure products meet regulatory and internal quality standards.
• Complete all production logs, batch records, and compliance documentation accurately.

• Maintain effective communication with fellow team members, and promptly report operational issues or concerns.
• Work with the milk mover and dairy team to keep production volumes accurate and reduce waste, flagging any discrepancies to the Shift Leader/Manager.

• Identify and report mechanical or process issues to management or maintenance; troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operational issues promptly.
• Participate in and help identify continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Attention to detail and ability to spot product issues and monitor cyclical tasks.
• Strong teamwork and independent work capabilities.
• Must have a solid understanding of physical fitness, safety protocols, and advanced cleanliness/food safety standards.
• Ability to…