Industrial Dough Processing Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Industrial Dough Processing Lead Ready to lead the mix?

Do you instinctively know when dough is perfectly developed? Can you translate a formula into repeatable excellence—batch after batch? Join us in Manteno, IL to lead industrial dough mixing for a high-volume bakery operation. You’ll safeguard quality, keep production supplied, and mentor operators while staying hands-on with the craft.

Your mission

Own the mixing room from intake to handoff. Confirm ingredients and allergen status, validate FIFO and lot codes, scale with precision, and load mixers in the right order. Control mix time, speed, water temps, and dough temperatures. Sense hydration, elasticity, and consistency—and act fast when something drifts out of spec.

Impact you’ll make

• Turn production schedules and recipe sheets into a dependable batching sequence.
• Keep accurate, complete batch records: weights, times, temps, lot codes, deviations, and adjustments.
• Troubleshoot issues like under-/over-mixing, clumping, or hydration problems.
• Coordinate dough flow so downstream teams stay on pace.
• Coach less-experienced Mixing Operators and model safe, efficient practices.
• Inspect equipment before use; report concerns and support changeovers and sanitation.
• Follow GMP, allergen control, sanitation, food-safety, PPE, and equipment-safety procedures.

What it takes

• 3+ years in bakery manufacturing with emphasis on dough mixing/processing.
• Experience as a Mixer Operator, Dough Maker, Lead Mixer, or similar.
• Hands-on skill with industrial mixing equipment and accurate documentation.
• Ability to evaluate dough quality and resolve inconsistencies.
• Experience with allergen controls; familiarity with HACCP, GMP, SQF.
• Leadership experience coordinating workflows and training team members.
• Comfort in variable temperatures and around loud machinery.
• Lift up to 50 lbs. and stand/walk for extended periods, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Flexibility to work up to six days a week depending on production demands.

Bonus skills

• Bilingual English/Spanish.
• Experience with spiral, horizontal, or planetary mixers.
• Familiarity with automated dosing, water meters, hydraulic lifts, dough troughs/hoppers.

Pay, Schedule, and Opportunity

• Hourly Rate: $26.00–$30.00
• Shifts: 1st and 2nd
• Employment Type: Full-time, Contract-to-Hire (Manteno, IL)

Benefits when hired by our client

• Health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Growth and development opportunities
• Additional benefits

Skills that set you apart

• Equipment & Mechanical Troubleshooting
• FSQA; HACCP
• Compounder; Mixing; Blending
• Weighing Raw Materials; Precision Measurement & Inspection
• Maintenance & Repair Skills
• High School / GED
• Excellent Communication; Shop Math; Basic Computer Skills
• Experience in a Manufacturing Environment

If you’re energized by precision, pace, and mentoring others, this is your next step.