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Dairy Processing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary The Processing Manager is responsible for leading large-scale dairy and non-dairy ... operating or production problems * Coordinate production activities with production supervisors ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

The Sr. Dairy Processing Engineer will come in with deep technical expertise in fluid milk membrane ... Familiarity with regulatory expectations and operator training frameworks for pasteurization ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $138K/yr

The Sr. Dairy Processing Engineer will come in with deep technical expertise in fluid milk membrane ... Familiarity with regulatory expectations and operator training frameworks for pasteurization ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

The Sr. Dairy Processing Engineer will come in with deep technical expertise in fluid milk membrane ... Familiarity with regulatory expectations and operator training frameworks for pasteurization ...

Sr. Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

Will build and develop a team of 1-4 (e.g., process engineers, dairy scientists, technicians ... Familiarity with regulatory expectations and operator training frameworks for pasteurization ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

Will build and develop a team of 1-4 (e.g., process engineers, dairy scientists, technicians ... Familiarity with regulatory expectations and operator training frameworks for pasteurization ...

Processing Operator

Littlefield, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Select Milk Producers is one of the nation's largest and most progressive dairy cooperatives, with ... operating. * Properly document processing information on recording charts and track hourly checks ...

Processing Operator

Littlefield, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Select Milk Producers is one of the nation's largest and most progressive dairy cooperatives, with ... operating. * Properly document processing information on recording charts and track hourly checks ...

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Dairy Processing Operator information

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How much do dairy processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for dairy processing operator in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dairy Processing Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dairy Processing Operator, you need knowledge of food safety regulations, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pasteurization equipment, automated control systems, and HACCP certification is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing safe, high-quality dairy products efficiently while maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Dairy Processing Operators during production shifts?

Dairy Processing Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining product quality while meeting production targets, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to sanitation and safety protocols. Unexpected fluctuations in raw milk quality or temperature can also require quick adjustments to processes. Working collaboratively with maintenance and quality control teams is crucial to resolve issues efficiently and minimize downtime, making strong communication and problem-solving skills essential for success in this role.

What are Dairy Processing Operators?

Dairy Processing Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the production and processing of dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter. They operate and monitor machinery, ensure quality and safety standards are met, and troubleshoot equipment issues. Their role also involves cleaning and sanitizing equipment, maintaining detailed production records, and adhering to strict food safety regulations. Dairy Processing Operators play a crucial part in ensuring that dairy products are safe, consistent, and high-quality before reaching consumers.

What is the difference between Dairy Processing Operator vs Milk Plant Worker?

AspectDairy Processing OperatorMilk Plant Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in food safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, basic training in plant procedures
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, manufacturing lines, cold storageMilk collection, processing, packaging areas
Job DutiesOperate machinery, monitor quality, ensure safety standardsAssist in milk handling, packaging, cleaning

While both roles work in dairy production, Dairy Processing Operators typically handle machinery operation and quality control, requiring specific certifications. Milk Plant Workers often perform more manual tasks and assist in processing. The roles are complementary within dairy manufacturing facilities, with Dairy Processing Operators focusing on technical operations and Milk Plant Workers supporting daily production tasks.

More about Dairy Processing Operator jobs
What states have the most Dairy Processing Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Dairy Processing Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Dairy Processing Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dairy Processing Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Dairy Processing Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, 67% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Dairy Processing Manager

Dairy Processing Manager

Chobani

Twin Falls, ID

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Chobani rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 380 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Summary

The Processing Manager is responsible for leading large-scale dairy and non-dairy processing operations including batching, Ultra High Temperature (UHT) processing, non-dairy processing, and pasteurization. This role oversees complex processing systems that operate in a high-volume, continuous manufacturing environment and ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production of finished goods.

The Processing Manager drives operational excellence by prioritizing employee safety, product quality, and food safety while maximizing production efficiency and equipment performance. This leader works cross-functionally with Quality, Technical Services, Maintenance, Continuous Improvement, and Human Resources to optimize plant performance and support continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced 24/7 dairy manufacturing operation.

Responsibilities

  • Ensure safety of employees through example and accountability. Support regular communication and education on safety topics. Participate and recommend solutions related to all safety issues
  • Ensure product quality and food safety by working closely with the Quality and Food Safety team to ensure quality specifications of product are continually met
  • Ensure effective employee communication, training and compliance on quality programs, policies, and standards. Take action to address quality issues and the root cause
  • Review and analyze production, quality control, maintenance, and operational reports to determine causes of nonconformity with product specifications and operating or production problems
  • Coordinate production activities with production supervisors, maintenance/technical services, and quality control
  • Take full ownership of daily platform/area operations to ensure optimal production and utilization of staff, resources, and equipment
  • Recommend improvements to production methods, equipment performance and product quality
  • Coordinate all aspects of projects and platform/area performance to improve the overall efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of the assigned area
  • Maintain technical knowledge and ensure depth in understanding equipment and processes
  • Partner with continuous improvement leaders to implement Lean principles and practices
  • Provide leadership, coaching and mentoring to build an engaged and effective team
  • Establish goals, communicate expectations, and build a culture of accountability, commitment, and empowerment

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Food Science, Dairy Science, Operations Management, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and relevant dairy manufacturing experience
  • 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in a high-volume food or dairy manufacturing environment
  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale dairy processing operations including pasteurization, batching, UHT systems, or other liquid processing platforms
  • Demonstrated Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement skills
  • Project management experience
  • Strong business and financial competence
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative management style
  • Effective leadership skills to build a shared vision, energize, challenge, and engage team members to drive positive change
  • Excellent communication skills both verbal and written
  • Proficiency with Microsoft office applications and ERP systems

About Us

Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 byHamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers - Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at cafes nationwide, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail. In 2025, Chobani acquired Daily Harvest, a modern brand offering consumers nutritious, delicious and convenient ready-to-make meals.

Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world - putting humanity first in everything it does. The company's philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond. Chobani manufactures its products inNew York,Idaho,MichiganandAustralia, and its products are available throughoutNorth Americaand distributed inAustraliaand other select markets.

For more information, please visitwww.chobani.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Chobani is an equal opportunity employer. Chobani will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on any basis including, but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military and/or veteran status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics and genetic information, or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws.

The salary range for this full-time position is $107,000.00 - $147,400.00, + bonus + equity + benefits. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Chobani provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision coverage, disability insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, and tuition reimbursement. To help save for the future, all employees are eligible for a 401k match of 100% on up to 5% of eligible pay. To support growing families, we provide fertility and childcare assistance, and 12 weeks of parental leave at full pay after six months of continuous employment. In addition, we provide wellness resources which include an employee assistance program, fitness discounts, a wellness reimbursement, on-site gym access (certain locations) and a monthly wellness newsletter to connect you with resources and timely information. We offer various types of paid time of including: 120 hours of paid time off, 11 holidays, and paid volunteer time off.


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