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Cheese Making Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will be responsible for operating cheese making equipment. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are ready to ensure that quality never sleeps, then apply now and become an essential ...

Maintenance Manager

Turtle Lake, WI · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

We are proud to be a part of Wisconsin's strong tradition of cheese making and our goal is to make the best cheese in the world! We are now hiring a Maintenance Manager to oversee all maintenance ...

Production Team Member - 1st Shift

Seymour, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Duties and Responsibilities • Assist in the operation of machinery and equipment used in the cheese making process to ensure smooth operation and efficient production. • Works closely with other ...

The Cheese Merchandiser will oversee the cheese department, managing a team of cheese mongers to ... making skills. · Proficient presentation skills, including confidence in getting up in front of ...

As a Cheese Specialist, you are friendly and ambitious with a love for cheese, wine, and food. To ... making others smile is your favorite · You are eager & willing to learn · Being a part of your ...

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Cheese Making information

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$14

$18

$34

How much do cheese making jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cheese making in the United States is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What profession makes cheese?

The profession that makes cheese is typically known as a cheesemaker or cheese artisan. Cheesemakers often work in dairy farms, cheese factories, or artisanal production facilities, requiring knowledge of dairy science, food safety, and sometimes specialized certifications. They are responsible for the entire cheese-making process, from curdling milk to aging and packaging the final product.

How do I become a cheese maker?

To become a cheese maker, you typically need to gain knowledge of dairy science and cheese production through formal education or training programs. Practical experience in a dairy or cheese production facility is valuable, and some may pursue certifications in food safety or dairy technology to enhance their skills and job prospects.

What is cheese making?

Cheese making is the process of transforming milk into cheese through controlled coagulation, curdling, and fermentation. The process involves adding specific cultures and enzymes to milk, allowing it to form curds, which are then separated from the liquid whey. Different techniques, aging periods, and types of milk produce a wide variety of cheeses. Cheese making can be done at home or on a commercial scale, and it requires careful attention to hygiene and temperature to ensure quality and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cheese maker?

To thrive as a Cheese Maker, you need a solid understanding of dairy science, food safety, and cheese production techniques, often supported by formal training or experience in food manufacturing. Familiarity with pasteurization equipment, aging rooms, and food safety certifications like HACCP is typically required. Attention to detail, patience, and problem-solving skills help ensure consistency and quality in every batch. These skills are crucial for maintaining product safety, meeting regulations, and producing high-quality cheeses that stand out in the market.

What are some common challenges faced by cheese makers in maintaining product consistency?

Cheese makers often encounter challenges in ensuring consistency due to variables like milk quality, temperature control, and timing during each step of production. Seasonal changes in milk composition and differing bacterial cultures can affect texture, flavor, and yield. Successful cheese makers develop strong attention to detail, keep meticulous records, and collaborate closely with suppliers and team members to standardize processes and troubleshoot any inconsistencies. Regular tasting and quality checks are also essential parts of the daily routine to uphold product standards.

What is the difference between Cheese Making vs Cheesemaker?

AspectCheese MakingCheesemaker
CredentialsFood safety certifications, culinary or dairy trainingSame as Cheese Making, often with additional experience
Work EnvironmentFactories, dairies, artisanal workshopsProduction facilities, farms, artisanal shops
Industry UsageRefers to the process or craft of producing cheeseRefers to the professional who produces cheese

Cheese Making describes the process or craft of producing cheese, while Cheesemaker refers to the individual who performs this task professionally. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the focus differs: one is the activity, the other the person executing it.

More about Cheese Making jobs
What cities are hiring for Cheese Making jobs? Cities with the most Cheese Making job openings:
What states have the most Cheese Making jobs? States with the most job openings for Cheese Making jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cheese Making jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cheese Making jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cheese Making job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,409 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

3rd Shift Machine Operator Cheese 1

Great Lakes Cheese

Adams, NY • On-site

$23.95 - $24.60/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Great Lakes Cheese rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Overview

The Machine Operator 1 is responsible for operation of DMC, CIP and related equipment.

Job Responsibilities

Clean and sanitize all cheese making equipment.
Report any problems to Manager.
Communicate flow time and rates to other affected employees.
Maintain general housekeeping of work area.
Utlllze PCs, PI-CS and all other electronic equipment.
Keep accurate charts and records for regulatory agencies.
Assist other operators (Vats, Separator, DMC, RMC) as needed.
Train and mentor new operators

OMC Operator:
Follow cheese making instructions and keep accurate records.
Ensure proper function of cheese making equipment by following check out procedures.
Test cheese and whey throughout process as required.
Ensure proper pre-salting of cheese going to cheese cooker or curd tanks.

CIP Operator:
Hook up, verification of proper hookup, Clean-in-Place, reassemble or hookup equipment lines and tanks for production.
Verify proper use of correct cleaning chemicals and strength of chemicals by solution strengths.
Operate all CIP and COP equipment.
Ensure proper operation of all CIP equipment by use of check out procedures.

Skilled Relief:
Perform all functions of Vat Operator, Separator Operator, DMC Operator, CIP Operator, RMC Operator, and general labor.
All GLC employees are expected to perform any assignment or job task according to the stated safety policies and procedures.
All GLC employees are expected to produce our products in a manner that exceeds the quality and value expectation of our customers and consumers by adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices, Policies and Procedures outlined in our Safe Quality Food Program.   
Other responsibilities as assigned by the manager.

The pay for this position is $23.95/hr - $24.60/hr.  All offers will be based on a candidate's skills, prior relevant experience, applicable degrees and certifications, and internal equity. This range is specific to New York and may not be applicable to other locations

Required Education and Experience

Basic computer skills required.
Ability to trouble shoot problems

Preferred Education and Experience
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and related equipment.
  • Ability to make minor decisions based on standard practices.
  • Ability to read and prepare production reports and comprehend production worksheets.
  • Basic math skills to adjust process changes.
  • SAP experience.
Working Conditions
Ability to constantly stand/walk; bend/flex/extend neck; frequently grip/reach/lift/pull with L/R hands.
Ability to frequently handle material from floor-to-waist, waist-to-shoulder and pushing/pulling/carrying.
Product weight: up to 100 lbs
Repetitive work in a fast-paced production environment with average temperature of 50-60 degrees F.
Hair nets, ear plugs/muffs, hardhats, and/or safety glasses may be required.
EEOC & Disclaimer
Great Lakes Cheese is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.

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