Pasteurizer / Cheesemaker

At Stickney Hill Dairy , our cottage cheese makers are responsible for the hands-on creation, processing, and packaging of cottage cheese. This role is vital to ensure that products meet strict safety, quality, and consistency standards while maintaining efficient plant operations. Core Responsibilities Pasteurizers / Cheesemakers handle various stages of the cottage cheese-making process while strictly adhering to company policies, safety protocols, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).

Pasteurizing:

Pasteurizing milk, Culture and Rennet additions

Vat Management:

Setting, cutting, and cooking cottage cheese vats according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Monitor critical control points (CCPs) and document production data accurately.

Processing:

Overseeing the separation of curds and whey, as well as the washing and cooling of curds to maintain their soft texture. Adjust processing parameters (temperature, pH, time, flow rates) to maintain product consistency.

Blending & Dressing:

Follow standardized formulas and recipes: adding cream dressings, salt, and other flavorings to the washed curds to achieve specific flavor profiles.

Equipment Operation:

Operating and sanitizing specialized machinery such as pasteurizers, blenders, and packaging systems.

Quality & Safety:

Conducting sensory evaluations (taste, aroma, appearance) and pH testing to ensure product safety and standardized quality.

Packaging & Palletizing:

Inspecting seals and weights of retail packages and preparing them for shipment.

Working Conditions & Requirements Environment:

Dairy manufacturing facility. Exposure to heat, cold, steam, and cleaning chemicals.

Physical Demands:

The role typically requires extended standing, movement, and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Ability to climb stairs and work around industrial equipment. Sanitation (CIP): Heavy emphasis is placed on "Clean-in-Place" (CIP) procedures to sanitize tanks and lines between production runs. Some equipment requires hand cleaning and sanitization utilizing the provided tools and Proper Protective Equipment (PPE).

Qualifications:

High School diploma or equivalent (diary science or food science background preferred) Experience in dairy processing or food manufacturing preferred Strong understanding of production formulas and batch processing Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain accurate records Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred but not required

Pay:

$24.00 - $27.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person