Production Processor/Pasteurizer

Job Title: Dairy Processor/Pasteurizer

Company: Open Gates Group/Farmers Creamery

Location: Near Kalona, IA

About Us:

Open Gates Group is an entrepreneurial and growing family of companies located near Kalona, IA. With deep roots in the local community, we are dedicated to supporting Midwest, small family farms and delivering minimally processed, high-quality dairy products to over 3,500 stores nationwide. Driven by our passion for excellence, we launched a creamery that paved the way for 10 more innovative ventures in the food industry—establishing us as a leader in low-temp, vat pasteurized, organic dairy production.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a skilled Dairy Processor/Pasteurizer to play a key role in our production operations at Farmers Creamery. This position requires technical proficiency, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to quality assurance. As a vital member of our team, you will oversee the intake and processing of raw dairy, ensure adherence to quality standards, and operate pasteurization and separation systems. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and enjoy working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Typical shift is Monday-Friday, starting at 5am and running until production is done for the day.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage intake and production schedules to optimize efficiency and product consistency.
• Operate and oversee pasteurization and separator systems with precision and attention to detail.
• Conduct quality control checks, including monitoring product composition, temperature, and chemical properties.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and safety standards, including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Maintain accurate records and documentation to support quality assurance and compliance.
• Lead daily cleaning and sanitation procedures to uphold food safety and operational efficiency.
• Receive, unload, and process raw dairy products while ensuring the highest quality standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve processes and troubleshoot operational challenges.
• Work comfortably in tight spaces and be adaptable to various production environments.
• Support and mentor team members in production-related tasks to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed to contribute to the success of the business.

Qualifications & Skills:

• High School diploma or GED required; advanced technical training or certifications preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in food manufacturing, dairy processing, or a related field.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot processing equipment.
• Ability to read, interpret, and record instrument data with precision.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including attention to detail in recordkeeping.
• Physical capability to lift, move, and push up to 55 lbs regularly.
• Stamina to perform repetitive tasks, including standing, walking, climbing, bending, and twisting for extended periods.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime as needed.
• Commitment to workplace safety and strict adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE) and hygiene standards.
• Experience working with allergens in a food manufacturing environment is a plus.
• Team-oriented mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
• Integrity-driven with strong alignment to our company’s mission, vision, values, and operating principles.

Why Join Us?

At Open Gates Group, we offer more than just a job—we provide an opportunity to be part of a thriving organization that values innovation, community, and excellence. We invest in our employees by offering:

• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Matching 401k after 60 days of employment
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• A collaborative and supportive work environment
• The chance to make an impact in creating quality, nutritional products