Production Operator

About Us

We are a leading dairy/cheesemaking operation dedicated to producing high-quality products through safe, consistent, and efficient manufacturing practices. We take pride in our people and are committed to providing a positive, team-oriented workplace.

We are a subsidiary of the Michigan Milk Producers Association. A dairy farmer owned cooperative and dairy processor. Founded in 1916, the MMPA serves dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Why you’ll love working here:

• Competitive pay and shift premiums
• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, retirement plan).
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Employee appreciation events and recognition awards
• Employee wellness initiatives
• Employee feedback and suggestion forums

Position Summary

The Production Operator plays a critical role in the cheesemaking process, supporting daily production activities from milk intake to finished product packaging. This role is responsible for operating equipment, monitoring production flow, maintaining sanitation standards, and ensuring that all products meet our quality, safety, and regulatory requirements. Reliable and consistent attendance is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and adjust production equipment in accordance with established procedures.
• Follow cheesemaking processes including curd handling, cooking, draining, salting, and pressing.
• Perform routine quality checks and document results accurately.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment; follow all GMPs, HACCP, and food safety protocols. Ability to use cleaning chemicals in a safe manner.
• Troubleshoot basic equipment issues and communicate concerns to maintenance or supervision.
• Safely handle materials, ingredients, and chemicals as needed.
• Follow all safety policies, including lockout/tagout, PPE requirements, and safe lifting practices.
• Support continuous improvement efforts and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in food manufacturing or dairy production preferred, but not required — we will train the right candidate.
• Ability to pass a drug screen and background check.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment (standing, lifting up to 50 lbs, repetitive tasks).
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends or overtime as needed.
• Ability to follow written procedures, safety guidelines, and production instructions.
• Handle cleaning products and chemicals safely.
• Middlebury Cheese is a drug free and tobacco free workplace.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each responsibility satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the responsibilities.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of responsibilities that are required of the role. Responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

MMPA provides the opportunity for meaningful work that makes a difference in the dairy industry and in our communities. The diverse talents and perspectives of our employees help us to meet the needs of our member farms and the customers we serve.

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States.

MMPA is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and productive environment for all employees as one of our top priorities. As part of our commitment to your well-being and workplace safety, all applicants are required to undergo a drug screening and background check as part of the hiring process.

We are not accepting unsolicited candidate introductions, referrals, or résumés from third-party recruiters or staffing agencies for this position.

MMPA is an equal opportunity employer

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