Whey Production Operator

Company: Valley Queen Cheese Factory
Location: Clear Lake
Posted on: January 9, 2026

Job Description:

JOB DESCRIPTION Position Summary This entry-level position is responsible for learning and training on a variety of tasks to process, dry and package whey products that meet customer expectations and support the achievement of the company's vision, mission and values. Essential Functions - Provide assistance to operators and learn the basics of each position. - Perform preventative operator maintenance (POM) duties and complete additional cleaning tasks as determined by the supervisor. - Provide support to Whey Operator during CIP process. - Monitor, test and correct CIP concentrations. - Assist and support cleaning-related POMs. - Assist in CIP on MP RO/POL, Water HTST and all associated lines, tanks and equipment according to SOPs. - Provide support to Lactose Operator and Evap Operator during CIP process. - Monitor and sample RO/POL/HTST process during shutdown, CIP, and startup at specified control points and correct any deviations from defined analytical set points. - Transport finished WPC80 and Lactose to storage. - Maintain good communications with lead and/or supervisors to ensure a safe, continuous product flow and proper maintenance of equipment. - Complete and maintain appropriate paperwork and documentation to ensure accurate record keeping. - Operate and monitor assigned food safety preventative controls including verification activities, equipment operation, records requirements and corrective action database. - Safely handle, prepare and use chemicals while wearing proper PPE. - Attend and/or complete required safety and quality training sessions by the assigned deadlines. - Comply with all company safety rules to achieve no injuries and no lost time accidents. - Understand and adhere to all food safety, GMPs, and OSHA policies and procedures. - Adhere to all standard GMPs and performs all work in a manner that ensures the highest standard of food safety and quality. Competencies - Teamwork Oriented - Problem Solving/Analysis - Communication Proficiency - Initiative - Detail Oriented Supervisory Responsibility This position has no supervisory responsibilities. Work Environment This job operates in a food production environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to chemicals, moving mechanical parts and vibration. The noise level in the work environment can be loud. Physical Demands Please refer to the separate functional job description for this position. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position, and days of work are on an alternating repeating schedule. Hours of work for training are from 5:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., working an alternating schedule. Once trained, anticipated transfer to night shift to fill permanent position, working from 5:00 p.m. - 5:00 a.m. working an alternating schedule. Travel No travel is expected for this position. Required Education and Experience High school diploma or GED is required for this position. Maintain current forklift certification. Preferred Education and Experience Desire two or more years in a manufacturing facility. More specifically, experience with food grade products is preferred. Bilingual in English/Spanish. Additional Eligibility Qualifications Minimum age requirement is 18. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of responsibilities, duties or tasks that are required of the employee for this job. Responsibilities, duties and tasks may change at any time with or without notice. 5-2-2-5 5:00AM to 5:00 PM or 5:00 PM to 5:00 AM

Keywords: Valley Queen Cheese Factory, Sioux City , Whey Production Operator, Manufacturing , Clear Lake, Iowa