Machine Operator Associate Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

The UHT Operator (Ultra-High Temperature Operator) / Heat Treat Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining heat treatment and UHT processing equipment used in food and beverage manufacturing. This role ensures products are processed according to quality, food safety, and production standards while maintaining compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements. The operator monitors processing parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rates, and timing to ensure product integrity and consistency. The role also includes sanitation, troubleshooting equipment issues, documentation, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

• Operate UHT and heat treatment systems according to established SOPs and production schedules.
• Monitor and control processing parameters including temperature, pressure, flow rates, and holding times.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections and verify equipment readiness before production startup.
• Perform CIP (Clean-In-Place) and sanitation procedures to maintain food safety standards.
• Maintain accurate production records, logs, batch documentation, and quality checks.
• Troubleshoot and respond to equipment alarms, process deviations, or operational issues.
• Coordinate with Quality Assurance, Maintenance, and Production teams to ensure efficient operations.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and minor maintenance tasks.
• Ensure compliance with GMPs, HACCP, FDA, OSHA, and company safety standards.
• Monitor product quality and report any out-of-specification conditions immediately.
• Support production changeovers and startup/shutdown procedures.
• Assist with inventory management of processing supplies and chemicals.
• Participate in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical certification or associate degree in manufacturing, food science, mechanical systems, or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years of experience operating UHT, pasteurization, heat treatment, or food processing equipment preferred.
• Experience in beverage, dairy, or food manufacturing environments strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of UHT processing systems, heat exchangers, homogenizers, and sanitary processing equipment.
• Understanding of food safety and quality systems including HACCP and GMPs.
• Ability to read and interpret process diagrams, SOPs, and production documentation.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to operate manufacturing software and production support systems.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds during scheduled shifts.
• Ability to work in hot, cold, wet, and noisy manufacturing environments.
• Ability to wear required PPE including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and protective clothing.
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, or rotating shifts as needed.
• Manufacturing and production facility environment.
• Exposure to moving mechanical equipment, chemicals, steam, and cleaning agents.
• Requires adherence to strict food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to successfully complete and maintain all required equipment-specific training, certifications, and operational qualifications.

This position is classified as Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime). The expected hourly rate for this position is between $23.00 – $28.00 per hour based on a full-time schedule. As a 2nd shift employee, your shift differential pay is $0.50 for all hours worked during your assigned shift. Shift Differential Pay is subject to change.

The Company is committed to providing equal opportunity for employees and applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.