Manufacturing Technician

The Manufacturing Technician, Cheese Production is an entry level manufacturing position that assists with the production of cheese products. They will be trained on the phases of production, including pre-production, cheesemaking, and post-production. This role requires attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of production, cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety. This is a seasonal position through December 31, 2026 with the potential to turn into a full-time position.

Responsibilities & Duties:

• Operate safely and appropriately in all AgCertain situations and environments

• Ability to demonstrate a basic and continuously increasing understanding of associated systems within the cheese cutting and wrapping areas

• Operate basic process equipment including curd vats, hoops, pumps, knives, and agitators

• Understand the product flow of milk intake, curd, mold filling, salting, and aging

• Accurately record weights, lot code numbers, temperature, and pH moisture data

• Perform basic equipment setup and teardown

• Demonstrate proficiency with hoop washing and sanitizing tray wash equipment

• Understand how to read production orders and batch sheets

• Learn how to measure and adjust milk & curd parameters and be able to recognize curd texture/moisture changes

• Use scales, thermometers, and basic instruments within production

• Identify non-conforming products and be able to initiate the hold process

• Follow all written procedures (SOPs) and work instructions that pertain to the perspective area, including the production of cheese, maintenance of equipment, proper record keeping, and cleaning or sanitation of equipment and production areas

• Cross train with other areas of production as needed to assist with operations

• Operate all equipment with a heightened focus on precision and adherence to formulations

• Complete all necessary paperwork and recordkeeping as required by Quality Assurance to maintain traceability accurately and in a timely manner

• Undergo Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) training and be able to comply with Occupational Safety policies and GMPs in the production process; perform sanitation duties in accordance with SOPs, Food Safety and GMP compliance

• Participate in all company trainings

• Perform all other duties as assigned

• A high school diploma or GED equivalent level certification with proven reading, writing, clearly legible handwriting, computer, inter-personal communication and mathematics skills

• Physical abilities to include the ability to lift 75 lbs (34 Kg), ability to spend 8+ hours on feet and/or standing in place

• Strong attention to detail

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Act with humility, honesty, integrity, and a commitment to safety

• Abide by Good Manufacturing Practices in all areas of the facility