ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dairy Processing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

fairlife

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 ...

Valley Milk LLC

Wet Process Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Description Wet Process Operator (HTST Licensed)Location: Valley Milk, Turlock, CA Schedule ... The ideal candidate has experience in dairy manufacturing, understands HTST processing principles ...

fairlife

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 ...

fairlife

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 ...

Guida's Dairy

Mix Blend Operator

Homewood, AL

$17 - $20.50/hr

The Mix Processing Operator closely monitors the dairy production process and follows Standard Operating Procedures for mixing, cleaning, receiving, flavoring, batching and processing products. JOB ...

Mayfield Dairy Farms

Mix Blend Operator

Homewood, AL · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

The Mix Processing Operator closely monitors the dairy production process and follows Standard Operating Procedures for mixing, cleaning, receiving, flavoring, batching and processing products. JOB ...

Mayfield Dairy Farms

Mix Blend Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

The Mix Processing Operator closely monitors the dairy production process and follows Standard Operating Procedures for mixing, cleaning, receiving, flavoring, batching and processing products. JOB ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Mix Blend Operator

Homewood, AL

$17 - $20.50/hr

The Mix Processing Operator closely monitors the dairy production process and follows Standard Operating Procedures for mixing, cleaning, receiving, flavoring, batching and processing products. JOB ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator - Weekend Shift

Waukesha, WI

$22/hr

Dairy Processing Operator - All Shifts - $22/hr As a Dairy Processing Operator, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining sleeving and bottling machines. This role requires attention to ...

New

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

Mix Blend Operator

Homewood, AL

$17 - $20.50/hr

The Mix Processing Operator closely monitors the dairy production process and follows Standard Operating Procedures for mixing, cleaning, receiving, flavoring, batching and processing products. JOB ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDairy Processing Operator Jobs

Dairy Processing Operator information

See salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do dairy processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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 is a dairy processing operator?

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 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 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

Who are the top companies hiring for Dairy Processing Operator jobs?

The top employers for Dairy Processing Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Dairy Processing Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dairy Processing Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Dairy Processing Operator jobs?

For Dairy Processing Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Dairy Processing Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dairy Processing Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Processing Operator

Mechanicsburg, PA • On-site

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.
See more jobs at Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.external

$26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 169 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Starting Payrate: $26/HR
Dairy Farmers of America is looking for highly dependable team players to join our staff as PROCESSING OPERATORS at our Mechanicsburg, PA facility. The key role of a Processing Operator is to process raw ingredients into a finished dairy product using industrial processing equipment.
If you are fascinated by the process of industrial food & beverage manufacturing, are committed to supporting our reputation for excellent products, then this is the place for you and we are proud to offer you access to your wages on-demand, no need to wait for pay day.
Shift: Night Shift (6:00pm-6:30am) Monday thru Wednesday OR Thursday thru Saturday + every other Sunday - depending on the business needs.
Work 36 hours and get paid for 40 hours.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate equipment according to company and recipe standards
  • Comprehend written instructions and recipes when putting together ingredients and starting a new batch of products
  • Utilize ingredients on a first in/first out basis
  • Perform quality tests on ingredients when necessary and report any concerns to management
  • Maintain accurate production records that are written, and computer based. - Review charts, screens, quality check sheets and specifications that are in both hard copy and electronic format
  • Monitor machinery and adjust the controls for devices as needed
  • Report, troubleshoot and perform minor maintenance repairs as they occur
  • Perform cleaning and sanitation tasks as required to maintain plant equipment.
  • Assist with training in functional area as needed
  • Follow all DFA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate, regulatory quality, and sanitation requirements
  • Maintain a high level of safety and quality awareness and a high degree of urgency
  • Adhere to all safety policies and procedures
  • Foster teamwork consistent with our company and plant Mission, Vision, and Core Values
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:
  • Completion of a high school diploma or GED program
  • Able to read, write, and speak English
  • Ability to follow all appropriate safety standards in food production
  • Knowledge of basic math and reading comprehension skills
  • 1-3 years prior manufacturing experience preferred. Experience working in food production or in an industrial kitchen a plus
  • Knowledge of quality assurance practices preferred
  • Ability to learn and apply to plant environment
  • Effective communication skills
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Solid PC skills
  • Sit down forklift experience preferred

An Equal Opportunity Employer

What Dairy Farmers Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply