ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Whey Process Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Agropur

Whey Process Specialist

Luxemburg, WI · On-site

$69K - $86K/yr

The Whey Process Specialist works as part of a collaborative team to help improve the operating efficiencies in the production of high-quality cheese and/or whey ingredients. The Process Specialist ...

Agropur Cooperative

Whey Process Specialist

Luxemburg, WI · On-site

$69K - $86K/yr

The Whey Process Specialist works as part of a collaborative team to help improve the operating efficiencies in the production of high-quality cheese and/or whey ingredients. The Process Specialist ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsManufacturing JobsFood Manufacturing JobsFood Processor JobsWhey Process Operator Jobs

Whey Process Operator information

See salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do whey process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for whey process 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 does a whey process operator do?

A Whey Process Operator is responsible for overseeing the processing of whey, a byproduct of cheese production, in dairy manufacturing facilities. Their duties include operating and monitoring equipment that separates, filters, and dries whey into various products such as whey protein powder or lactose. They ensure that quality standards are met, troubleshoot equipment issues, take samples for laboratory testing, and maintain cleanliness and safety in the work area. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of food safety regulations, and the ability to operate complex machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a whey process operator?

To thrive as a Whey Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of dairy processing, quality control, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pasteurization equipment, filtration systems, and computerized process controls is typically required, as well as knowledge of food safety standards like HACCP. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure efficient production, product quality, and compliance with safety regulations in whey processing operations.

What are some common challenges whey process operators face during production shifts, and how can they be managed?

Whey Process Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality while managing equipment efficiency and troubleshooting unexpected process deviations. During busy production shifts, operators must monitor multiple parameters, adjust controls, and respond quickly to alarms or changes in product flow. Effective communication with maintenance and quality teams, along with a thorough understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), helps address these challenges and ensures smooth operation.

What is the difference between Whey Process Operator vs Milk Processing Technician?

AspectWhey Process OperatorMilk Processing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in dairy processingHigh school diploma, dairy processing training
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants focused on whey and dairy by-productsMilk processing facilities, dairy plants
Industry UsageCommonly employed in dairy and supplement industriesPrimarily in dairy production and packaging
Job FocusOperating equipment to extract and process wheyProcessing and packaging milk products

The Whey Process Operator and Milk Processing Technician roles share similar credentials and work environments within the dairy industry. While the Whey Process Operator specializes in whey extraction and processing, the Milk Processing Technician focuses on general milk processing and packaging. Both roles are essential in dairy production facilities and often require comparable training and certifications.

Are whey process operators in demand?

Whey process operators are in demand within the dairy and food processing industries due to the ongoing need for milk protein products. The role requires technical skills and knowledge of processing equipment, and employment opportunities are often influenced by the growth of dairy product manufacturing and automation advancements.

How to become a whey process operator with no experience?

To become a whey process operator with no experience, you should typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent and gain familiarity with manufacturing processes. Entry-level positions often provide on-the-job training, and obtaining certifications in safety or equipment operation can improve your chances of employment.

What are popular job titles related to Whey Process Operator jobs?

For Whey Process Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Whey Process Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Whey Process Specialist

Luxemburg, WI • On-site

Agropur
See more jobs at Agropurexternal

$69K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Agropur rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Type:
Regular
People are at the heart of our success. Our culture encourages collaboration, transparency, and accountability in order to generate value and achieve sustainable results. Being part of the team means committing to an environment where everyone's impact truly matters.
At Agropur, each role aims to generate value and have a tangible impact on collective performance.
Context to maximize your impact:
  • Salary range 004: $69,500 - $86,900 (Salary will be determined based on skills, education, training & experience related to the position.)
  • Work Schedule: Monday - Friday or Sunday - Thursday
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Short and Long-term Disability Insurance
  • 401(k) with 7% company contributions
  • 3 weeks Paid Time Off
  • Paid holidays and 2 floating holidays
  • Paid parental leave
  • Advancement Opportunities

Where you will drive value:
We are looking for a Whey Process Specialist in Luxemburg, WI.
The Whey Process Specialist works as part of a collaborative team to help improve the operating efficiencies in the production of high-quality cheese and/or whey ingredients. The Process Specialist performs advanced troubleshooting on all machines and processes in the assigned plant location (s).
  • Identify problem areas or areas for improvement in production; determine a course of action; help implement improvement and corrective actions in these areas.
  • Obtain and maintain good knowledge of cheese make, cheese conversion, whey and permeate process and procedures as assigned.
  • Collaborate with internal and external personnel to develop systems and procedures for new unit operations for the production of whey/dairy products.
  • Accurately perform statistical analysis of laboratory and process data to identify trends, deficiencies and formulate predictions.
  • Develop and write Standard Operating Procedures for production and cleaning processes.
  • Work with plant, corporate and client personnel to resolve day-to-day production tasks/needs as they arise.
  • Understand and comply with all Quality Assurance policies; immediately reporting any potential food safety issues to management.
  • Work with the sales department regarding product disposition as well as with the customers. Visit customers as required to support the customer's needs and wants for whey ingredients, such as coordinating and leading production trials.
  • May work with ERP (SAP, MES, AOS) system for product disposition and formulation updates/changes for the plant.
  • Engage and lead applicable AOS activities, such as centerline and CIL management, loss tree, and 90-day plan development, etc.
  • Inspect food processing areas to ensure compliance with government regulations and standards for sanitation, safety, quality, and waste management.
  • Evaluate food processing and storage operations and assist in the development of quality assurance programs for such operations.
  • Develop food standards and production specifications, safety and sanitary regulations, and waste management and water supply specifications.

What will enable you to have an impact:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Operations Management or Manufacturing Engineering required.
  • Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered.
  • Minimum three (3) years of dairy processing experience preferably in a whey-processing environment (Pasteurizes, Membrane Systems, Spray Dryers, and Evaporators) required.
  • Extensive dairy experience along with progressive leadership growth preferred.

A role aligned with what creates the greatest collective impact.
#CH-1
Agropur welcomes people from all backgrounds and origins. We are proud to be an employer with a diverse community and are committed to providing a respectful and inclusive experience for all employees and applicants. We will work with candidates who request accommodation. Please note that an adequate knowledge of French is required for positions in Quebec. Agropur uses artificial intelligence technology to assist our recruiters in screening, assessing, or selecting applicants for this position.
In this text, the use of the masculine gender to designate persons is intended only to lighten the text.

What Agropur employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply