Pasteurizer Operator

Job Description

Job Description

About the Role

The Pasteurizer Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring pasteurization equipment to ensure products are processed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with food safety regulations. This position plays a vital role in maintaining product integrity by monitoring critical process controls, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting consistent production performance.

This is a high-responsibility production role requiring strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to food safety. The right candidate understands that precision and consistency are essential to producing high-quality products our customers trust.

What You'll Do

Production Operations

• Operate pasteurization systems according to established production schedules and standard operating procedures.
• Monitor temperatures, flow rates, pressures, holding times, and equipment performance throughout production.
• Verify product specifications are achieved before, during, and after each production run.
• Perform production changeovers while minimizing downtime and maintaining food safety standards.
• Complete production documentation accurately and in real time.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Monitor Critical Control Points (CCPs) in accordance with HACCP requirements.
• Ensure compliance with FDA regulations, GMPs, SQF standards, and company food safety programs.
• Immediately report deviations, process abnormalities, or food safety concerns.
• Participate in corrective actions whenever production falls outside established specifications.
• Maintain complete and accurate production records to support regulatory compliance.

Equipment Performance

• Conduct pre-operational inspections of pasteurization equipment before production begins.
• Perform routine equipment adjustments to maintain consistent production performance.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and escalate mechanical concerns to Maintenance when appropriate.
• Assist with preventive maintenance activities as scheduled.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas throughout each shift.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Partner with Quality Assurance to ensure finished products consistently meet company specifications.
• Monitor production efficiency and identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve throughput.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen safety, quality, and operational performance.
• Assist with product changeovers while maintaining sanitation and quality standards.

What You'll Bring

• Previous experience operating food or beverage processing equipment preferred.
• Understanding of pasteurization processes, HACCP principles, GMPs, and food safety requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to monitor and troubleshoot production equipment.
• Strong mathematical and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to follow detailed operating procedures while maintaining accuracy under production demands.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

This Describes You

• Process Focused — You understand that consistency is critical and follow procedures with precision every time.
• Technically Curious — You enjoy learning how equipment works and solving problems before they become larger issues.
• Calm Under Pressure — When production challenges arise, you stay focused and make thoughtful decisions.
• Food Safety First — You recognize that every setting, adjustment, and record directly impacts product safety.
• Dependable — Your team trusts you to operate equipment safely, efficiently, and consistently.