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Dairy Processing Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Dairy Plant Operator

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$22/hr

Key Responsibilities Operate and monitor dairy processing and packaging equipment during production runs Assist with the manufacture and processing of dairy products according to established ...

Develop and optimize dairy product formulations by selecting and applying enzyme solutions to meet customer needs, processing requirements, and product performance targets * Provide technical ...

Bachelors Engineering Degree in dairy food processing, chemical, mechanical, bio-systems etc * Must have 3+ years' experience in the sanitary dairy process industry and a working knowledge of ...

... and dairy processing systems. The role supports liquid and cheese projects from conceptual design through commissioning and startup, working closely with customers, regulation authorities, sales ...

Experience in food manufacturing, dairy processing, packaging, or consumer packaged goods environments strongly preferred. * Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement training ...

Experience in food manufacturing, dairy processing, packaging, or consumer packaged goods environments strongly preferred. * Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement training ...

DAIRY/DEPT LEADER

Monona, WI ยท On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Dairy experience * Retail experience * Second language (verbal, reading and/or writing) * Promote ... Plan and organize the inventory process, maintain awareness; note any discrepancies. * Train ...

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Dairy Processing information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$25

$48

How much do dairy processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for dairy processing in Wisconsin is $25.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $29.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dairy processing?

A Dairy Processing job involves handling, pasteurizing, packaging, and storing dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. Workers ensure quality control, maintain sanitation standards, and operate machinery for efficient production. Responsibilities vary by role but often include monitoring temperatures, performing inspections, and troubleshooting equipment. These jobs are typically found in dairy plants, manufacturing facilities, and food production companies.

What does a dairy processing do?

A typical day in Dairy Processing often includes operating and monitoring milk processing machinery, testing products for quality and safety, following sanitation protocols, and recording production data. You may also be responsible for packaging dairy products and troubleshooting equipment issues as they arise. Work is usually performed in temperature-controlled facilities as part of a coordinated team, with close adherence to safety and hygiene standards. Effective communication with supervisors, quality control, and maintenance teams is essential to ensure smooth operations. Over time, operators may gain experience to move into roles such as team lead, quality assurance, or plant management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dairy processing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Dairy Processing, you need practical knowledge of food safety, sanitation procedures, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated processing equipment, pasteurization systems, and HACCP certifications are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this field. These skills ensure product quality, compliance with food regulations, and efficient production in a fast-paced environment.

What is a dairy processing operator?

A dairy processing operator is responsible for operating and monitoring equipment used to produce dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. They ensure quality control, follow safety protocols, and may need certifications in food safety or machinery operation. The role often involves working in a manufacturing environment with attention to hygiene and efficiency.

What skills are needed for dairy processing jobs?

Dairy processing jobs require skills such as attention to detail, knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards, and the ability to operate processing equipment. Good communication, teamwork, and physical stamina are also important for working in a production environment, often involving shift work and adherence to strict regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Dairy Processing jobs in Wisconsin?

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

What job categories do people searching Dairy Processing jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Dairy Processing jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Dairy Processing job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,482 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Dairy Plant Operator

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Manufacturing Equipment TechnicianJob Summary:

The Babcock Dairy Plant is seeking a dependable and hardworking Machine Operator to support the production of our award-winning dairy products. This is a full-time, hands-on manufacturing position in a dairy processing facility, responsible for operating production equipment, assisting with product manufacturing, and maintaining sanitation standards in a food production environment.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable working around processing equipment, following food safety and quality standards, performing physical work, and contributing to the daily operation of a busy dairy manufacturing plant.

Key Responsibilities
Operate and monitor dairy processing and packaging equipment during production runs
Assist with the manufacture and processing of dairy products according to established procedures and quality standards
Perform equipment setup, cleaning, and sanitation activities to ensure compliance with food safety requirements
Clean and sanitize processing equipment, production areas, floors, and walls as directed by the supervisor
Unload delivery trucks and transport ingredients, supplies, and finished products between storage areas and the production facility
Serve as a backup delivery driver, operating a plant truck (under 26,000 lbs. gross vehicle weight) to deliver dairy products throughout the Madison campus and to other state agencies
Follow plant safety protocols, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and sanitation procedures
Perform duties under general supervision with a focus on safety, efficiency, product quality, and teamwork

Work Schedule & Physical Requirements
Regular work schedule: 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Occasional overtime may be required based on production needs
Ability to regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds
Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive motions throughout the shift
Ability to work in a dairy manufacturing environment, including exposure to cold temperatures, moisture, noise, and food production equipment

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, operating machinery, and being part of a team that produces high-quality dairy products in a manufacturing setting.


Additional Information:
A criminal background check may be required
A six-month probationary period may be required
A valid driver's license is required. Employees must become an approved driver through UW-Madison's driver authorization process, which requires meeting established criteria. Information about UW-Madison Driver Authorization can be found at https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Unloads the store raw materials and prepares and loads orders of finished materials for shipment or delivery
  • Monitors and maintains inventory and required records, and assisting with retail sales
  • Provides assistance with assembling, testing and maintaining manufacturing equipment
  • Operate department delivery truck to distribute products on local UW-Madison campus and to other state agencies.

  • Maintains documentation of equipment maintenance and repair procedures for future reference procedures
  • Performs regular inspections to identify and correct equipment malfunctions, repairs and replacements
  • Reads and understands technical manuals for equipment operations and maintenance
  • Promotes a safe, clean, and organized facility
Department:

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Department of Food Sciences, Babcock Dairy Plant

Compensation:

The minimum salary for this position is $22.00/hour. However, actual salary will depend on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Additional benefits information can be found at: https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/univstaff.pdf

Required Qualifications:

Demonstrated mechanical aptitude through experience working with tools, machinery, mechanical equipment, or production systems in a manufacturing, industrial, agricultural, construction, maintenance, or related environment
Experience performing production-related work in a manufacturing, processing, distribution, or industrial setting
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical work requiring standing, walking, bending, and repetitive motions throughout the workday
Valid driver's license and ability to operate a University vehicle

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience operating, monitoring, or troubleshooting equipment in a food manufacturing facility
Experience cleaning and sanitizing production equipment, processing areas, and facilities in accordance with food safety and sanitation standards

Education:

Preferred H.S. Diploma

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please click on the "I am a current employee" button or "I am not a current employee" button under "Apply Now". You will be prompted to upload the following documents.
Resume (required) - Detail your educational and professional background
Cover letter (required) - Address each of the required and preferred qualifications as they relate to your work experience

It's important that your cover letter and resume reflect your experience for this position related to the Qualifications section. Your application materials will be used during our evaluation to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.

There is only one attachment field; please upload all application materials here.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of the appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position.

References: Finalists will be asked to provide contact information (phone and email) for three references, one of which must be a current or former supervisor. References will not be contacted without prior notice.

Contact Information:

Hong Zhang, hong.zhang@wisc.edu, (608) 265-4473

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. SeeRELAY_SERVICEfor further information.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.


The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.


To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.


Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.