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Vat Operator - night shift - 12 Hour Shifts ($31.84/hr.)

Allendale, MI USA
Requisition ID:  31907
No of Openings:  1
Posted Date:  Jun 12, 2026
Job Function:  Production Operations
Description: 

Short & Sweet: The vat operator is responsible for the cooking, mixing, and monitoring of the cheese make process.

 

Schedule: 

  • 12 HOUR SHIFT
  • 5:30 PM - 6:00 AM
  • 2, 2, 3 rotation
  • 24/7/365/Weekends/Holidays

 

General Outline of Duties:

  • Operate the HTST, vats and CIP system for eight vats simultaneously in a fast paced environment

  • Communicate clearly with the Quality Department, Cheese Production Operators and department management

  • React quickly and adjust / troubleshoot equipment to maintain product specifications

  • Legibly complete the Make Sheet

  • Take samples of milk, curd and whey at scheduled times

  • Understand cheesemaking procedures (i.e.: soft sets, poor acid development, weak curd, and starter problems)

  • Follow proper agitator RPM’s

  • Perform all necessary checks / calibrations including metering starter and thermometers at designated times

  • Recognize and communicate potential deviant situations

  • Start up and shut down HTST

  • Maintain the plant production schedule

  • Apply lockouts to equipment as required

 

Qualifications:

Minimum

  • Demonstrated ability to complete work assignments with high degree of accuracy
  • The ability to communicate verbally and in writing
  • Must be 18 years old
  • Must be able to support 24/7/365/weekends/holidays
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs from floor to mid-chest and climb stairs hourly

Preferred

  • Prior cheese and/or dairy foods manufacturing experience
  • Prior chemical or laboratory experience
  • Familiarity with SAP or other manufacturing software system working with touch screens

Leprino uses Psychemedics for a 90-day hair follicle drug test as part of the employee pre-employment process and also participates in E-Verify. All employees in our manufacturing facilities are required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as mandated by their role and location.


Nearest Major Market: Grand Rapids

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