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Milk Processing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Select Milk Producers

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 ...

Select Milk Producers

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 ...

Lala

Dairy Processing Operator - 2nd shift

Omaha, NE · On-site

$26.08/hr

Dairy Processing Operator - 2nd Shift Omaha, NE Full Time 729621 *** $3,000 New Hire Bonus ... milk, condense skim and cream), receiving bulk chemicals, making yogurt mix and pasteurizing the ...

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How much do milk processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for milk 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 some common challenges faced by Milk Processing Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Milk Processing Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring consistent product quality. Staying vigilant about cleanliness is essential to prevent contamination, while promptly addressing issues with machinery helps minimize downtime. Effective communication with team members and continuous training on safety and operational procedures can help operators overcome these challenges and maintain smooth production processes.

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

To thrive as a Milk Processing Operator, you need a solid understanding of dairy processing, quality control, and food safety, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training in food technology. Familiarity with pasteurization equipment, automated processing systems, and relevant safety certifications like HACCP is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant milk production operations.

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

AspectMilk Processing OperatorDairy Plant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentProcessing lines, dairy facilitiesMaintenance areas, processing equipment
Industry UsagePrimary role in milk processingSupports processing with maintenance and troubleshooting
Common Search IntentUnderstanding processing rolesTechnical support and maintenance roles

The main difference is that Milk Processing Operators focus on operating and monitoring milk processing equipment, while Dairy Plant Technicians handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of processing machinery. Both roles are essential in dairy production, but they emphasize different skill sets and responsibilities within the industry.

What are Milk Processing Operators?

Milk Processing Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating and monitoring equipment used in the processing of milk and dairy products. Their main duties include pasteurizing, homogenizing, separating, and packaging milk to ensure it meets safety and quality standards. They also perform routine maintenance on machinery, check product quality, and keep accurate records of production. Attention to hygiene and strict adherence to food safety regulations are essential parts of this role.
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Milk Processing Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Milk Processing Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Full Time, 74% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 16% Contract. 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

Processing Operator

Select Milk Producers

Littlefield, TX • On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Select Milk Producers is one of the nation's largest and most progressive dairy cooperatives, with 32 wholly owned subsidiaries, 8 processing plants, and 8 joint ventures including Continental Dairy Facilities, Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest, Mill Haven Foods, Select Custom Solutions, GreenLink and Select Services. With over 800 employees, the Select Milk family of companies impacts all aspects of the dairy farm business and at the heart of our family of companies, is you.
"We strive to go above and beyond what's expected in providing for our families, leading our employees, caring for our land and animals, serving our customers, producing quality milk, and serving one another. This commitment is more than our business, it's in our culture and our character. We believe in being accountable, in doing what's right, in performing at our best, in setting a higher standard."
Select Milk Producers and its subsidiaries offer an attractive compensation and a best-in-class benefits package that includes but is not limited medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more that can be tailored for you and your family. Other benefits for eligible employees include 401(k) up to 6% company match, life and disability insurance, and paid holidays & vacation. We are proud to promote an equal employment opportunity workplace.

  • SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS: Receiving and storage of raw products, operate Milk Separator, HTST and Membrane Filtration system in a safe, sanitary manner. Operations include milk separation, pasteurizing and membrane filtration of product, cleaning of processing equipment and related equipment, and documenting accurate test results while in operation. Cleaning of the processing equipment includes manual cleaning of parts, clean-in-place operations, and Master Sanitation, daily.
  • SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS: Receiving and storage of raw products, operate Milk Separator, HTST and Membrane Filtration system in a safe, sanitary manner. Operations include milk separation, pasteurizing and membrane filtration of product, cleaning of processing equipment and related equipment, and documenting accurate test results while in operation. Cleaning of the processing equipment includes manual cleaning of parts, clean-in-place operations, and Master Sanitation, daily. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
    • Effectively start up, shut down, and CIP processing equipment.
    • Maintain proper quality of product being produced.
    • Monitor in-process results according to product specifications at a minimum of twice per hour and record results on log sheets while operating.
    • Properly document processing information on recording charts and track hourly checks on CCP log sheets.
    • Properly CIP product storage silos and associated equipment and complete post-CIP checklists.
    • Perform CIP solution strengths and log on CIP log.
    • Service pumps and valves as needed and/or per preventative maintenance.
    • Aid in the training of new personnel.
    • Report immediately to the foreperson or supervisor of any damage, irregular activity, or unsafe conditions concerning the equipment and process.
    • Maintain a clean and safe work area. Facility must be audit ready, always.
    • Follow all company policies and procedures regarding safety, quality, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
    • Responsible for Food Safety and Quality.
    • Works with Critical Control Points (CCP) for Vat Pasteurizers.
    • Support a company culture of continuous improvement by participating in efficiency and improvement efforts.
    • Perform other duties as assigned by management.
    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
    • An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
    • Must work in a safe, efficient manner and follow all safety procedures including the use of safety equipment.
    • Must have the ability to troubleshoot small problems and be able to discern when issues may require input from levels of authority within the corporation.
    • Must be willing to ask for assistance when the process is unclear.
    Education and/or Experience:
    • A High School diploma or General Education Degree (GED) is required.
    Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
    • Must possess or be able to acquire an Industrial Truck Operator License.

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