Prairie Farms

Luana, IA

Job Title:  Cream Cheese Mix Maker & Separator Operator

Immediate Supervisor   Production Manager

FLSA Status:       Non-Exempt Class # 6

Summary:  The Mix Maker/Separator Operator is responsible for producing in spec product by following SOP’s and operating standardization equipment in addition to assisting on the packaging line as needed, to satisfy customer expectations. This position is also responsible to make the Cream Cheese Mix as production dictates.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Required to work without direct supervision. 
• Ensure safety, sanitation, GMP’s (Good Manufacturing Practices) and quality policies and manufacturing procedures are followed.

1. Immediately notify management of all unsafe conditions or situations.

• Follow blend recipes, formulas, SOP’s and SSOP’s for successful operation of CC standardization equipment, including but not limited to separation, blending, ingredient addition & homogenization. 

1. Complete all required pre-start up sanitary requirements.
2. Insure proper ingredient addition and In-Process testing as required.
3. Accurately make in-process adjustments to ensure in-spec product.
4. Maintain product yield targets. 
5. Maintain consistent product supply to packaging.
6. Notify dept. management of all deviations that could result in product failure to meet required specs.

• Maintain the cream cheese standardization equipment and environment in an acceptable condition using CIP & COP tools and SSOP methods in a safe and effective manner.
• Accurately verify the functional operation of standardization equipment as required by SOP’s.

1. Take appropriate corrective action in the event that the equipment is not operating as required. 

• Accurately and correctly complete all required documentation. (Production and CIP records)

1. Including accurate data entry into a site wide MIS.

• Successfully perform CC Mix Maker’s duties on an every other Sunday rotation; follow Mix Makers job description, SOP’s & SSOP’s to ensure in-spec product.

1. Accurately use the company electronic inventory system to track & record all inventory changes under your control.

• Other duties as required.

Qualifications/Requirements: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty / responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Previous cream cheese manufacturing experience preferred. In lieu of previous cream cheese manufacturing experience,  previous dairy processing experience is preferred for consideration. This may include a combination of hands on experience / time spent in separation, homogenization, pasteurization, process control, blending equipment operation, and proven sanitation skills in a dairy manufacturing environment. 
• Knowledge of the mechanics of fluid systems, chemistry, physics and equipment required. 
• Basic math skills to calculate production yields, and understand weights and measures are required.
• Demonstrated and documented safe working habits coupled with good attendance is required.
• Demonstrated computer literacy and data entry skills required.
• Shift work is required. Must be able to work flexible hours and every other weekend.
• Must be able to read, interpret and understand and verbally communicate in the English language.
• Previous use of high volume, highly automated processing equipment preferred, including knowledge of the proper use of equipment, materials and supplies.
• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent skills by experience.
• Must be able to read, interpret and understand written and oral directions.
• Knowledge of proper use of equipment, materials and supplies.

• Must demonstrate basic math skills to calculate production yields, and understand weights and measures.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to sit, stand, or walk for prolonged periods of time. The employee is required to use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms on a repetitive basis. The employee must be able to push, pull, and move up to 100 pounds. The employee must be able to physically lift up to 50 pounds. All jobs require visual acuity to review written documentations; ability to hear and understand speech. At times there can be loud noise which may cause the worker to shout in order to be heard above the ambient noise level. There is exposure to a variety of physical conditions such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current, and exposure to heat/cold temperature changes.

Prairie Farms is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.