Dairy Production Team Members- 1st and 2nd Shifts

Description

Open Gates Group, based near Kalona, IA, is a family of companies dedicated to the growth and manufacturing of local dairy products. What began as a single creamery has grown into 11 businesses that source, produce, and deliver high-quality Midwestern products to over 3,500 stores nationwide. Our organic milk is uniquely special: it comes from grass-fed cows on small family farms, is pasteurized at the lowest legal temperature, is non-homogenized, and is verified regenerative through Land to Market, which means our cows are grazed in a way that enhances the environment rather than harming it. 

SUMMARY

We’re hiring multiple Dairy Production Team Members to support milk and cream processing, pasteurizing, and bottling operations. In this hands-on role, you’ll set up and operate production equipment, bottle and package finished products, and clean and sanitize equipment. Team members rotate through tasks and cross-train to support production needs while maintaining high standards for food safety, quality, and efficiency.

Typical Schedule: 

1st shift: Monday-Friday, 6am- 2pm

2nd shift: Sunday-Thursday, 2pm-10pm, Monday-Friday, 11am-7pm

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up and operate dairy processing, pasteurizing, and bottling equipment.
• Monitor production activities to meet established processing rates and product quality standards.
• Bottle, fill, and package finished products accurately and efficiently.
• Assist with equipment start-up, product changeovers, and shutdown.
• Clean and sanitize production equipment using manual and automated cleaning systems.
• Follow food safety requirements, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), workplace safety guidelines, and company procedures.
• Rotate through production tasks and cross-train to support team members and production needs at other facilities.
• Learn and use required production technology and equipment.
• Perform other production-related duties as needed.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Cheese, dairy, or food manufacturing experience preferred.
• Ability to be cross-trained and work effectively in multiple production roles.
• Ability to follow written instructions and accurately record instrument data in English.
• Strong attention to detail with clear verbal and written communication skills, including legible handwriting.
• Ability to adhere to all safety, hygiene, and food manufacturing requirements.
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Positive attitude, high integrity, and alignment with OG’s mission, vision, values, and operating principles.

Requirements/Work Environment

• Work is performed in a food manufacturing environment with exposure to wet floors, temperature variation, noise, and moving equipment.
• Regular exposure to food allergens and cleaning/sanitation chemicals.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Adherence to PPE, grooming, hygiene, and GMP standards necessary for a food manufacturing environment, such as wearing safety shoes, safety glasses, hair/beard nets, and gloves, and no facial piercings.
• Must be able to safely navigate wet floors, uneven surfaces, and production areas while wearing required PPE.
• Ability to work scheduled shifts, including daily overtime and additional hours beyond 40 per week as required.