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Prairie Dairy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Lab Technician

Carbondale, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Laboratory Technician Prairie Farms Dairy is a farmer-owned dairy cooperative. Founded in 1938, Prairie Farms manufactures and distributes a complete line of fluid milk and dairy products throughout ...

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Driver - Route

Joliet, IL · On-site

$26/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 ...

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

CDL Class A

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$32/hr

Prairie Farms Dairy, Battle Creek operates as a dairy manufacturing plant and distribution center that covers the whole state of MI and some of the surrounding states. We make dairy products that are ...

Hiland Dairy

Office Staff

Carlinville, IL · On-site

Office Position at Prairie Farms Dairy Prairie Farms Dairy is looking to fill an office position in the local Carlinville Office. We are looking for someone with a strong customer service background ...

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Maintenance

Jefferson City, MO · On-site

$29.50 - $30.50/hr

To simply "do right" for our farm families, employees, and communities _____ EEO Statement Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive ...

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Prairie Dairy information

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How much do prairie dairy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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?

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:
What job categories do people searching Prairie Dairy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prairie Dairy jobs are:
Prairie Dairy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prairie Dairy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Nights. 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.

Lab Technician

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Carbondale, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Laboratory Technician

Prairie Farms Dairy is a farmer-owned dairy cooperative. Founded in 1938, Prairie Farms manufactures and distributes a complete line of fluid milk and dairy products throughout the Midwest. Our products are available in grocery chains, mass merchandiser, club stores, convenience stores, dollar stores, drug stores, schools, food service outlets and warehouse distribution centers. We have an opening in our Quality Assurance Department for a Laboratory Technician in our Carlinville, Illinois facility. This position reports to the Corporate Lab Director.

Purpose

The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for testing both raw and processed fluid milk products and operating the modern testing equipment. Applicants must be able to communicate and work well with other team members.

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week)

Hours: Range between 6am - 5 pm Mon-Friday and possible weekend hours

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Operate milk laboratory equipment, including but not limited to the following: Foss FT3 component analyzer, pH meter, autoclave, analytical scales, incubators, 3M petrifilm, etc.
  • Perform approved testing methods for rapid screening of detection of antibiotics
  • Perform analytical testing for components of dairy products
  • Monitor weight control of finished items
  • Perform calibration techniques on laboratory equipment
  • Ability to recognize and identify both technical and instrumental problems and present solutions
  • Navigation of software programs specific to the dairy industry
  • Keen observation to any deviations from company specifications and alert management in a timely manner
  • Solid planning and organizational skills, detail orientation and the ability to manage multiple projects in a timely manner with limited direct supervision
  • Compliance with GMP, Safety and Work Policies
  • Other duties may be assigned

Requirements

  • Ability to acquire Certifications for Raw Milk Testing Equipment and pass necessary ongoing training certifications.
  • Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other technology-based programs related to the position
  • Physical demands may include: standing, walking, stooping, reaching, climbing, kneeling, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or otherwise moving objects weighing up to 50lbs.
  • Self-Starter with the ability to work independently; good time management skills, flexibility to take on additional tasks as necessary.
  • Must be organized and detail oriented; excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to maintain flexible hours, including weekends and holidays
  • Three-month probationary period


Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

Retirement Program

Paid Holidays

Paid Time Off


Prairie Farms Dairy is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Prairie Farms Dairy logo

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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