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Production Operator

Valley Queen Cheese Factory, Inc.

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Milbank, SD
LOCATION

Job Description

As posted by the hiring company

Job Overview:

Start Your Career in Dairy Production

At Valley Queen, we’re looking for reliable, hard-working individuals to join our team as Production Operators in either our Packaging or Whey Processing areas. These entry-level roles are a great way to get started in manufacturing, learn new skills, and grow your career.

In this role, you’ll either help package cheese products or support the processing and drying of whey products. No matter where you start, you’ll be part of a team focused on producing safe, high-quality food products.

What You’ll Do

Depending on the area you’re placed in, your day could include:

Cheese Packaging

  • Help assemble, fill, and seal large cheese boxes
  • Run and monitor packaging equipment
  • Check weights and product quality
  • Keep your work area clean and sanitary
  • Support team members

Whey Processing (Trainee)

  • Learn how whey is processed, dried, and packaged
  • Assist operators with cleaning and sanitation (CIP)
  • Monitor equipment and take product samples
  • Help move finished products to storage

In Every Role

  • Follow food safety, quality, and safety procedures
  • Complete basic paperwork and production records
  • Communicate with your team to keep things running smoothly
  • Safely handle cleaning chemicals using proper PPE
  • Take part in ongoing training and development

Schedule

  • Full-time, 12-hour shifts (5:00 AM–5:00 PM or 5:00 PM–5:00 AM)
  • Rotating schedule with every other weekend (double time pay on Sundays)
  • Training typically starts on day shift before moving to a permanent schedule

What We’re Looking For

  • We’re looking for people who:

    • Work well as part of a team
    • Pay attention to details
    • Are willing to learn and take initiative
    • Can handle a fast-paced, hands-on work environment
    • High school diploma or GED required.
    • Willing to obtain Forklift certification 
    • Must be 18 or older.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

  • Work only half the days of the year
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Predictable schedules — know your hours every week
  • Clean, organized, food-grade environment (not a typical factory)
  • Strong, stable local company
  • Great people and team culture
  • Paid training

Work Environment:
You’ll be in a food production setting with moving equipment and some noise. Proper safety gear is provided.

Ready to join us? Apply today and start building a career in the dairy industry!