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Dairy Processing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Albertsons

Process Engineer - Dairy

Boise, ID

The Dairy Process Engineer will take a handson, datadriven approach to evaluating currentstate ... Develop, document, and standardize bestpractice operating procedures, process parameters, and ...

Albertsons

Process Engineer - Dairy

Boise, ID · On-site

The Dairy Process Engineer will take a hands‑on, data‑driven approach to evaluating ... Develop, document, and standardize best‑practice operating procedures, process parameters, and ...

Albertsons

Process Engineer - Dairy

Boise, ID · On-site

The Dairy Process Engineer will take a hands-on, data-driven approach to evaluating current-state ... Develop, document, and standardize best-practice operating procedures, process parameters, and ...

Byrne Dairy

Processing Supervisor - BCV

Cortland, NY · On-site

$33.50/hr

This includes setting up, operating, cleaning, and troubleshooting production equipment in ... Minimum of 5+ years as a Processor in the dairy industry Byrne Headquartered in LaFayette, Byrne is ...

The Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania has a robust dairy processing sector, with over 100 dairy processing plants across the ... Operators Short Course, Cultured Dairy Products Short Course, Preventive Controls (PCQI/FSMA) for ...

Byrne Dairy

Processing Supervisor - BCV

Cortland, NY · On-site

$33.50/hr

This includes setting up, operating, cleaning, and troubleshooting production equipment in ... Minimum of 5+ years as a Processor in the dairy industry Byrne Headquartered in LaFayette, Byrne is ...

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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:
Dairy Processing Operator jobs near you
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.
Processing Operator (HTST) 2nd Shift

Processing Operator (HTST) 2nd Shift

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Nashville, TN

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 52 rated farming

Job description

Purity Dairies is looking for a Pasteurizer Operator for our Nashville facility.

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefit package, great growth opportunities, and scholarship opportunities for you and your family.

The schedule will be M-F 1pm-9:30 pm.

Come join the best team in town!!

Purity Dairyhas immediate job openings for a Pasteurizer Operator isresponsible for operating HTST machines and making necessary adjustments to ensure production of products is made in a safe, efficient, and high-quality manner. Maintain communication with other departments, management and employees and notify them of any problems and/or concerns that may restrict the efficiency of production. Ensure all paperwork is filled out in a clear, legible and accurate format, and completed with required information. Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with SOP's. Filler Operatorwill be required to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and communicate effectively with all departments.

Purity Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers.Our mark matters and it represents the wholesomeness of dairy that we share with our communities and loved ones. DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream, dairy ingredients and more, under well-known and established regional brands. Our fingerprints touch thousands of brands across the marketplace, and we're passionate about delivering the simple pleasures of dairy to people everywhere, straight from our family farm-owners.

By joining DFA, you can help us continue to make a difference that matters. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors and friends, and we celebrate the diversity of our company and our world. It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities - come join us!

It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities - come join us!

OUR MACHINE OPERATOR FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO:

  • $26.00 per hour

SCHEDULE:

  • Monday-Friday

BENEFITS:

  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Competitive pay
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Career growth opportunities - we promote from within!
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Service recognition and employee rewards
  • Employee referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Uniforms provided
  • Work for dairy farm families

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