Roaster Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wonderstate Summary

For us, coffee is a source of wonder. Since 2005, Wonderstate has roasted earnest and extraordinary coffees that honor relationships and champion our collective future. As the 2010 Roast Magazine Roaster of the Year and five-time Good-Food award winner, our mission continues to expand with three cafes and strong customer relationships in grocery stores, coffee shops, and offices around the Upper-Midwest and all over the country. Yet like the Driftless region we call home, we know you dont have to be big to make an impact. From our industry-leading minimum price guarantee to farmers, to our 100% solar powered roastery, 5% Giving program, and embracing a healthy work-life balance for all staff, were working to do our part.

We're seeking collaborative, curious, and kind people to join us and to build our collective future,together.

Position Overview

The Roaster is responsible for executing Wonderstate Coffee's daily roasting operations while maintaining the quality, consistency, and attention to detail that define our coffee program. This role works closely with the Head Roaster to ensure production schedules are met, roast profiles are executed accurately, inventory is maintained, and quality standards are consistently achieved.

The Roaster plays a critical role in transforming green coffee into finished products that reflect Wonderstate's commitment to exceptional quality and producer stewardship. This position requires strong attention to detail, technical aptitude, organization, and a passion for continuous learning within specialty coffee.

Core Responsibilities

Roast Production

• Roast coffee according to established production schedules and roast profiles
• Monitor roast performance and make adjustments within established parameters to maintain consistency and quality
• Ensure production goals and inventory targets are achieved while maintaining quality standards
• Maintain accurate roast logs, production records, and quality documentation
• Follow established operating procedures and roasting protocols

Quality Assurance & Sensory Support

• Participate in production cuppings, sensory evaluations, and quality control activities when possible
• Monitor roasted coffee quality and identify potential inconsistencies or quality concerns
• Communicate quality observations and concerns to the Head Roaster
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to roast quality and consistency

Green Coffee & Inventory Management

• Assist with staging coffee for production runs
• Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing green coffee
• Maintain organization and cleanliness of green and roasted coffee storage areas

Equipment Maintenance & Operational Excellence

• Perform daily cleaning and preventative maintenance tasks on roasting equipment
• Assist with troubleshooting equipment issues and reporting maintenance concerns
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized roasting and warehouse environments
• Support compliance with food safety, organic certification, and workplace safety requirements
• Follow all established safety procedures and operational standards

Department Support

• Partner Roasting Team and Production Team to support departmental goals
• Assist with production, fulfillment, and warehouse activities during peak periods as needed
• Support coffee-related projects, product launches, and special initiatives
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Represent Wonderstate's commitment to quality and continuous improvement in daily work

Supervisor Responsibilities: None

Requirements & Desired Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain consistency
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn roasting equipment and software systems
• Ability to identify and solve problems in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation
• Commitment to workplace safety and cleanliness
• Desire to continuously learn and develop coffee knowledge
• Ability to give and receive feedback respectfully while honoring relationships
• Passion for ethically sourced, organic, high-quality coffee and supporting farmer cooperatives
• Commitment to exemplifying Wonderstate's mission and core values

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous experience in coffee roasting, food production, manufacturing, warehouse operations, or related environments preferred
• Specialty coffee experience preferred but not required
• Experience operating machinery, production equipment, or manufacturing systems preferred
• Experience with inventory management and documentation is a plus
• Forklift certification or willingness to become certified preferred
• Familiarity with Cropster or similar roasting software is a plus

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and move throughout production environments for extended periods
• Ability to regularly lift and move items up to 50 pounds
• Ability to safely team-lift green coffee bags weighing between 132 and 152 pounds with another team member and move bags from elevated storage positions to floor level
• Frequent bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, pulling, and repetitive movement
• Ability to safely operate roasting equipment and warehouse machinery

Work Environment

• TuesdayThursday core schedule with flexibility based on production needs
  • Potential availability 7AM to 7PM Monday-Thursday, flexibility for open shifts Monday and Friday
• Work performed in roasting, warehouse, and production environments
• Exposure to heat, coffee dust, noise, and production equipment
• Fast-paced environment requiring attention to detail, adaptability, and teamwork

Other duties

Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with notice.

Wonderstate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.