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Prairie Dairy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance

Kosciusko, MS ยท On-site

$20.58 - $21.83/hr

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. is one of the largest and most successful dairy cooperatives operating in the Midwest and the South. Elements of the cooperative include more than 600 farm families, 7,000 ...

Driver - Route

Joliet, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

Route Driver Prairie Farms Dairy is looking for Class B CDL Drivers to join our team in Joliet, IL . We are seeking experienced, motivated Route Sales Drivers to deliver to local customers and ...

Machine Operator

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

- Machine Operator Prairie Farms Dairy in Dayton, OH is currently accepting applications for machine operators for our manufacturing plant. Filler operators, mix makers and plant relief are all ...

Maintenance

Jefferson City, MO ยท On-site

$29.50 - $30.50/hr

... Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation ...

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Prairie Dairy information

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$10

$17

$22

How much do prairie dairy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for prairie dairy in the United States is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dairy Farm Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dairy Farm Worker, you need practical knowledge of animal husbandry, basic farm operations, and a strong work ethic, often acquired through on-the-job training or agricultural coursework. Familiarity with milking machines, feeding systems, and maintenance of farm equipment is typically required. Strong observation skills, reliability, and the ability to work well independently or in a team are important soft skills. These competencies ensure efficient farm operations, animal well-being, and the consistent production of high-quality dairy products.

What are some common challenges faced by workers in a Prairie Dairy operation, and how can they be addressed?

Employees in Prairie Dairy operations often encounter challenges such as adapting to variable weather conditions, managing animal health, and maintaining equipment. Working closely with a supportive team helps address these issues, as does staying updated on best practices in animal care and dairy technology. Many dairies offer ongoing training and encourage collaboration to ensure staff can share solutions and maintain productivity, even during busy or unpredictable periods.

What is a Prairie Dairy?

A Prairie Dairy is a dairy farm located in prairie regions, typically characterized by vast, open grasslands ideal for grazing cattle. These dairies focus on raising dairy cows and producing milk and other dairy products, often using sustainable and pasture-based methods. The term 'Prairie Dairy' can also refer to specific dairy businesses or cooperatives in prairie areas. Such dairies play a crucial role in local agriculture and the rural economy by supplying fresh dairy products to nearby communities.

What is the difference between Prairie Dairy vs Dairy Farm Worker?

AspectPrairie DairyDairy Farm Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic dairy knowledgeHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentIndoor milking facilities, processing areasOutdoor farm settings, milking barns
Employer & Industry UsageDairy processing companies, large-scale farmsFamily farms, commercial dairy operations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Prairie Dairy typically refers to a company involved in dairy processing or large-scale dairy operations, often with indoor facilities. Dairy Farm Workers are employed directly on farms, working outdoors and in milking barns. While both roles involve dairy production, Prairie Dairy jobs focus more on processing and plant work, whereas Dairy Farm Workers handle farm chores and animal care.

More about Prairie Dairy jobs
What cities are hiring for Prairie Dairy jobs? Cities with the most Prairie Dairy job openings:
Infographic showing various Prairie Dairy job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,361 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Maintenance

$20.58 - $21.83/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Job description

The Dairy Industrial Maintenance Mechanic shall be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:

Repairs and maintains mechanical, air, electrical and hydraulic components of various equipment such as processing, blow-molding, filling, and material handling equipment, following blueprints, wiring diagrams and specifications, and using hand tools, power tools, welders, and precision measuring instruments.

Visually inspects and listens to machines and equipment to locate causes of malfunctions. Dismantles machines and equipment to gain access to problem area, using hand tools and power tools. Inspects and measures parts to detect wear, misalignment, or other problems. Removes and replaces worn or defective parts of drive mechanism or hydraulic system, using hand tools and power tools, and following blueprints, diagram, and service manuals. Re-aligns and adjusts components, such as spindles and clutches, using hand tools and following diagrams. Locates damaged air and hydraulic pipes on machine, and measures, cuts, threads, and installs new pipe. Starts machines and equipment to test operation following repair. Repairs broken parts, using brazing, soldering, and welding equipment and hand tools. May modify computer- controlled functions on various equipment. Will be required to work with and understand boilers, refrigeration, hydraulic, air, electrical, and other systems in the plant. Will be filling out written reports.

Required Technical Skills:

  • Mechanical: must be able to troubleshoot and repair mechanical equipment used for production.
  • Welding: must be able to perform welding repairs on production equipment as needed.
  • Electrical: Must be able to troubleshoot electrical systems and controls for single and three phase services.
  • Basic math knowledge.
  • Must be able to use a measuring tape.
  • Basic knowledge of hand tools.
  • Ability to follow blueprints, wiring diagrams, and service manuals a plus
Required Soft Skills:

  • Must be able to follow both verbal and written instructions.
  • Coachable and willing to learn.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work without direct supervision.
Physical Requirements:

Must be able to work in both very hot and very cold temperatures and in a very wet and humid environment for extended periods of time. Must be able to bend, crawl, climb, squat, and work at times both above the head and at ground level during repair and maintenance operations. Must keep work area safe and clean and work in a safe and efficient manner.

Education, Certifications and Experience:

The following is preferred:

  • Familiarity with ammonia systems used for refrigeration, boilers, and air compressors.
  • Food production maintenance.
Other:

The Industrial Maintenance Worker is an hourly position and reports to the Maintenance Manager. Schedule is determined based on needs identified in that department.

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. is one of the largest and most successful dairy cooperatives operating in the Midwest and the South. Elements of the cooperative include more than 600 farm families, 7,000 associates, 47 manufacturing plants, and 100+ distribution facilities. Prairie Farms is a nationally recognized leader in the dairy industry known for setting the standard for milk flavor innovations and producing award-winning milk, cheese, and cultured dairy products. With headquarters in Edwardsville, Ill., the Prairie Farms distribution footprint covers over 30 percent of the United States; products are available in grocery chains, mass merchandiser stores, club stores, convenience stores, dollar stores, drug stores, schools, foodservice outlets, and warehouse distribution centers.

Prairie Farms Dairy is seeking Career minded Maintenance Personnel. Our Maintenance Team is responsible for keeping our Prairie Farms dairy plant equipment and tracks in top condition.



Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Overtime


Work Location: Kosciusko, MS

Job Type: Full-time



Prairie Farms, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.


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About Prairie Farms Dairy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1940, PRAIRIE FARMS DAIRY is a prominent player in the dairy industry located in Carlinville, IL, US. The company prides itself on being a hardworking farm cooperative with a unique mission to support the American dairy farmer. Producing and delivering quality dairy products is the heart of their operation, which spans a large range of offerings including milk, cheese, butter, ice cream, and yogurt. The company's core values comprise integrity, quality, and commitment to continuous improvement. As a crucial achievement, PRAIRIE FARMS DAIRY has won numerous local, state, and international awards for many of its products.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Edwardsville, IL, US

Year founded

1938

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