Operator Trainee Jobs in Durango, CO (NOW HIRING)

Job Title:
Enrober Operator Trainee
Department:
Production
Location:
Factory
Status:
Regular, Full-Time
FLSA Category:
Non-Exempt
Reports to:
Production Supervisor
Direct Reports:
N/A
Level:
Operator Trainee
Pay Range:
$18.50 - $19.00 per hour
Relevant Work Experience:
1+ years manufacturing plus; training provided
Schedule:
M - Th, 10-hour shifts; overtime as needed Fri - Sat
We're hiring full-time Enrober Operator Trainees for our Durango, Colorado facility. This is a learn-on-the-job training role built for someone who wants to build a long-term career in production and is ready to grow into a full Operator position and pay rate. You'll train alongside experienced Operators and the Start-Up team to learn how to set up, start, and support enrobing equipment, melters, and tempering units so production is ready to run on time.
Success in this role depends on attention to detail, following instructions closely, strong teamwork, and a willingness to troubleshoot and think critically. You don't need to be an expert in chocolate on day one but you do need to be genuinely interested in learning chocolate tempering and crystallization, and in applying that learning on the floor. We invest time in training, so we're looking for people who value teamwork, take pride in quality, and want to stay and grow.
SCHEDULE
Full-Time: Monday-Thursday, 10-hour shifts with required overtime as needed on Fridays and Saturdays. Schedule allows for two 15-minute breaks and one 30-minute lunch.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN & DO

• Learn daily preparation, start-up, operation, and cleaning of enrobing and chocolate-handling equipment.
• Set and monitor temperature, pressure, and time controls; start conveyors, machines, and pumps (with training and support).
• Maintain adequate levels of melted chocolate and learn how temper and viscosity affect coating quality.
• Observe gauges, dials, and product characteristics; make adjustments and communicate changes to maintain consistent enrobing results.
• Collect and examine product samples during production to confirm quality, color, content, consistency, and viscosity.
• Stop or reset equipment when malfunctions occur; clear jams; perform minor maintenance as trained; report issues promptly.
• Clean, wash, and sanitize equipment and work areas using approved procedures and solutions.
• Transport supplies and product to and from work stations; keep the line stocked, organized, and ready.
• Support department needs such as feeding product, hand signing, packaging, and labeling as assigned.
• Follow all safety rules, GMPs, and food-safety requirements; help reduce scrap and bloomers through careful handling and attention to detail.
• Work with Operators, Leads, and the line team to ensure instructions are understood for each product being run.

Requirements

• Strong attention to detail and ability to carefully follow written and/or verbal instructions.
• Ability to think critically, troubleshoot, and ask the right questions when something looks off.
• Ability to visually inspect product and supplies to meet quality standards.
• Good hand-eye coordination and ability to work safely around moving conveyors and equipment.
• General mechanical aptitude and comfort learning basic machine adjustments and minor fixes.
• Problem-solver mindset and proactive approach to preventing downtime and quality issues.
• Genuine interest in learning about chocolate - especially crystallization, tempering, and how process affects finished quality.
• Regular, consistent attendance and punctuality (essential). Training is an investment, and we're looking for people who want to grow and stay with the team.
• Ability to communicate clearly and respectfully with a team and maintain a steady attitude during busy or stressful moments.

*This position works with products containing milk, eggs, wheat, soybeans, peanuts, and/or tree nuts.
*Ability to work required overtime during peak seasons week as needed.
PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Factory environment with moving conveyors, machinery, tables, carts, and racks.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (10+ hours) and maneuver around equipment and shelving.
• Frequently lift up to 25 lbs; occasionally lift up to 50+ lbs; push/pull wheeled carts up to 200+ lbs.
• Ability to bend, stoop, squat, reach away from the body and above waist level, and grasp small objects.

BENEFITS

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings and Flexible Savings Accounts
• 401(k) with company match
• EAP program
• Short/Long Term Disability - Paid by Company
• Life Insurance - Paid by Company
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts