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Milk Processing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IDAHO MILK PRODUCTS

Membrane Operator - Night Shift

Jerome, ID · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Membrane Operator to oversee and manage the membrane filtration processes in our industrial milk processing plant. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

IDAHO MILK PRODUCTS

Packaging Operator

Jerome, ID · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Milk processing plant experience is a plus Skills and Knowledge: * Able to work in teams ... Machines Operated: * Office machines (e.g., personal computer, copy machine, fax machine ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

New Berlin, WI

$22/hr

Operate dairy processing equipment to control milk temperatures, texture, and processing. * Monitor the processing dials and equipment. * Relieve other machine operators during machine downtime or ...

Organic Valley

Milk Truck Driver

Viroqua, WI · On-site

Performs quality control process steps ensuring satisfactory and sanitary collection ... Must possess at least a Class B Commercial Driver's License with interstate operating privileges ...

Organic Valley

Milk Truck Driver

Viroqua, WI · On-site

$23.73 - $28.76/hr

Performs quality control process steps ensuring satisfactory and sanitary collection ... Must possess at least a Class B Commercial Driver's License with interstate operating privileges ...

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Milk Processing Operator information

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How much do milk processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 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.
More about Milk Processing Operator jobs
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Milk Processing Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Milk Processing Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Vacation/Shift Relief Operator (Processing), Dairy - Lakeland

Vacation/Shift Relief Operator (Processing), Dairy - Lakeland

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Lakeland, FL • On-site

$21.40 - $29.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Publix rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 4,580 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 118 rated grocery stores

Job description

Description
  • relieving all position in the processing, receiving and sanitation areas of the milk processing plant during vacations; duties include but are not limited to:
    • maintaining housekeeping
    • processing of fluid milk and juice
    • processing of mix for ice cream
    • producing slurries for ice cream
    • receiving of fluid ingredients
    • CIP'ing lines and tanks
    • receiving of fluid tankers
  • providing coverage in the plant to allow for training, meetings or cutting overtime and
  • assist with training of new associates at the discretion of leadership may also be required.

Additional Information
Your application may have additional steps that you will need to complete in order to remain eligible for consideration. Please be sure to monitor your email, including your spam folder, on a daily basis for critical, time-sensitive emails that could require action within 24-48 hours.
Please do not use your Publix email address when applying. Once your application has been successfully submitted you will receive a confirmation email.
For this position, Publix does not and will not file a petition or application with the USCIS or Department of State on behalf of any noncitizen for any immigration-related benefit to work and/or to continue to work in the United States, e.g., an H-1B or TN petition or permanent residence.
Other Compensation Information
Night Differential: A $.75 per hour night differential is paid to associates regularly scheduled to work any hours between midnight and 3:00 a.m. (this does not include shifts that end at midnight or begin at 3:00 a.m.).
Weekend Differential: A $2.00 per hour weekend differential is paid to associates for hours worked between 12:00 a.m. Saturday through 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
Year End Bonus
To reward associates for their contributions to the company for the calendar year, Publix provides a Holiday Bonus in November. In the first year of continuous employment the bonus is equal to 15 hours of pay, and in the second year of continuous employment the bonus is equal to one week's pay if associate remains employed through issue date of the bonus check. In subsequent years, the bonus is equal to two weeks' pay.
Required Qualifications
  • must be at least 18 years old
  • must demonstrate excellent work habits in line with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
  • must obtain license and operate forklift
  • must demonstrate safe working habits
  • must be able to lift in excess of 50 pounds frequently
  • must be able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • must have good human relations skills (the ability to work well with others and be a team player
  • must be able to work any shift, nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours
  • must have excellent attendance and punctuality
  • must have excellent safety work habits
  • must be willing to assist other team members in other areas
  • must be able to perform steady and productive work for an extended period of time
  • must be able to work efficiently with little or no supervision
  • must be able to follow detailed written and verbal instructions
  • must possess basic math skills
  • must be able to communicate effectively
  • must show enthusiasm, initiative, and pride in work and
  • must show commitment to Publix and our mission.

Work Environment
Work is conducted in different environments from 40 degrees to 110 degrees. Work requires climbing ladders, and entry into confined spaces. Working in damp and wet environments and including using high pressure hoses, cleaning chemicals and CIP systems
Benefits Information
  • Employee stock ownership plan that contributes Publix stock to associates each year at no cost
  • An opportunity to purchase additional shares of our privately-held stock
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan
  • Group health, dental and vision plans
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Free hot lunches (buffet-style) at facilities with a cafeteria
  • Visit our website to see all of our benefits: Benefits - Jobs (publix.com)

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