LUB DMC Trainee (L1)

For our state-of-the art 600+ person Lubbock, TX cheese and whey manufacturing facility, Leprino is seeking a L1 DMC Trainee.

This position pays $21.35 per hour. Once certified, the pay increases $23.65. There is an additional $1 differential for hours worked between 6pm and 6am. Weekly pay. 

Summary Description:

The DMC Trainee is an entry‑level role designed to develop the skills needed to operate DMC equipment safely, accurately, and efficiently. Under close supervision, the trainee learns how to monitor system parameters, perform pH checks, complete required documentation, and support overall product quality. Once all required training and certifications are completed, the Trainee will advance to the DMC Operator position.

Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Job Duties (Accountability Categories and Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities): 

NOTE: The job may include other “non-essential” responsibilities and duties that are not listed on this form.

As a Trainee, you will learn to:

• Monitor DMC operations — Observe and support the DMC process to ensure equipment is running within targeted parameters. Assist with verifying that preheat tanks and related systems are functioning correctly.
• Take accurate pH readings — Practice taking pH measurements at scheduled intervals and learn how to validate that readings meet required specifications.
• Document production information — Help accurately enter data into the MES system, including pH results, operational checks, and process observations.
• Complete operational checklists — Assist with Start‑Up/Shutdown checklists, operational inspections, and sanitation/CIP tasks. Learn how to record CIP titrations correctly.
• Understand equipment safety and quality standards — Build foundational knowledge of SOPs, GMPs, and safe work practices to ensure raw material quality and finished product integrity.
• Communicate production concerns — Notify team members, leads, and supervisors of any equipment, process, or quality issues.
• Follow equipment setup and shutdown procedures — Assist with preparing equipment for operation and learn proper shutdown steps to prevent damage or contamination.
• Work effectively with the team — Build strong communication habits with co‑workers, team leads, and supervisors to support smooth and safe operations.
• Follow sanitation procedures of all equipment at shutdown
• Complete assigned GMP and housekeeping duties and maintain 5S standards as required
• Perform work in a safe manner by following safety procedures and policies, critical safety rules, and expected standard conduct
• Complete assigned inpscetion program duties.
• Complete paperwork accurately and in a timely manner. Know and understand the normal operational readings for all data recorded. Take action to correct problems should operations fall outside of normal process.
• This position is responsible and accountable to ensure product meets food safety, regulatory, and quality requirements by following the Food Safety Plan, Quality Plan, and company policies.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• Must be 18 years old
• Must be able to speak, read, write, and comprehend basic English language
• Ability to evaluate and identify mechanical conditions and make adjustments or corrective action as necessary
• Ability to access elevated work areas such as climbing ladders/stairs
• Basic math skills to be able to perform mathematical functions
• Ability to understand and apply standard operating procedures
• Ability to maintain clean work area according to good manufacturing processes
• Good communication skills to communicate with co-workers and oncoming/outgoing shifts

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Two years of work experience operating machinery in a manufacturing environment and experience with HMIs are preferred

Physical/Mental Requirements and Work Environment:

Work Environment Description:

• The DMC Trainee must have the ability to:  perform essential job functions which may include lifting up to 15 lbs; access elevated work areas such as climbing ladders/stairs; evaluate and identify mechanical conditions and make adjustments or corrective action as necessary; wear required personal protective equipment; work in hot, humid, and cold areas; comply with all applicable safety practices; complete written reports; perform basic mathematical calculations; enter data into and pull data from computer systems. 
• The Greeley plant is a 24 hour; 7 day a week operation which requires the DMC Operator to work 12 hour shifts to include days, nights, and weekends. The DMC Operator must be able to meet these shift requirements.
• This position requires the incumbent to work on site at the facility to be able to perform the associated job responsibilities.

Additional:

The DMC Trainee must be able to work overtime and holidays when required.

Leprino Foods celebrates and supports diversity. We believe in equal opportunity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. We know we are better together and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive culture that uses the unique talents, experiences, background, and perspectives of each individual employee.

Our Story:

Leprino Foods’ history dates back over 70 years, when Jim Leprino first started making small batches of mozzarella for local markets and eateries in the Little Italy neighborhood of Denver. We’ve grown a bit since then. Today, Leprino is the world’s largest manufacturer of mozzarella and lactose, and a leading producer of whey protein. Still owned by Jim and the Leprino family, our sights are set to be the “World’s Best Dairy Food and Ingredient Company.” To help us achieve that bold vision, we’re looking for our secret ingredient: You. A motivated team member who is the best at what you do. Three people in a small corner grocery store in the early 1950s have now grown to almost 5,000 employees throughout 16 global locations. Will you join us on our journey?

Leprino Foods Company utilizes the services of Psychemedics to perform our Hair Follicle Drug Testing. Additional information about this process can be obtained at www.psychemedics.com Leprino Foods requires all individuals to wear the appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) as required by the role and location. Leprino Foods Company supports a drug-free workplace and is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer – M/F/Disability/Veteran

Nearest Major Market: Lubbock