Fermentation Operator 1st Shift
Now Hiring: Fermentation Operator 1st Shift (6AM-4:30PM Weds-Saturday) Weekly Pay $25-28/hr Job Description The Fermentation Operator oversees the end-to-end fermentation process in a small, hands-on manufacturing environment. This role focuses on cleaning and sterilizing equipment, preparing and blending ingredients, monitoring critical process parameters, and operating key equipment such as centrifuges and spray dryers. The Fermentation Operator also supports warehousing and basic maintenance activities, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production in a dynamic production setting. ResponsibilitiesPerform CIP (clean-in-place) of fermentation vessels and related equipment to ensure sanitary and safe operations.Sterilize fermentation vessels and equipment prior to production to maintain product quality and compliance with food manufacturing standards.Weigh, blend, and mix ingredients accurately according to batch records and production instructions.Monitor fermentation parameters throughout the process, adjusting as needed to maintain optimal conditions.Monitor centrifuge parameters during operation to ensure consistent performance and product quality.Disassemble and clean the spray dryer, following established procedures to maintain hygiene and equipment reliability.Monitor spray dryer parameters throughout the process and make necessary adjustments to achieve desired product characteristics.Perform warehousing tasks such as loading and unloading trucks, conducting inventories, and preparing shipments.Execute maintenance tasks including disassembling, reassembling, and lubricating pumps, valves, piping, motors, and other equipment.Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines.Work collaboratively with team members, communicate effectively, and support various production tasks as needed.Maintain accurate documentation of production activities, batch records, and equipment cleaning.Operate within a production and manufacturing environment, adapting to changing priorities and multitasking across different functions. Essential SkillsStrong mechanical aptitude with the ability to disassemble, reassemble, and maintain pumps, valves, piping, motors, and equipment.Experience in production, general production, or production operator roles in a manufacturing or food production environment.Hands-on experience with fermentation processes, including CIP of vessels and equipment, sterilization, weighing and blending ingredients, and monitoring fermentation parameters (experience preferred).Familiarity with food production, food manufacturing, or food industry environments and standards.Understanding and practical use of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and batch record documentation.Ability to lift up to 60 lbs safely and repeatedly as needed.Good communication skills, including verbal, written, and basic computer skills.High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in measurements, documentation, and equipment handling.Willingness to work until the job is complete and to support different functions as needed.Ability to work safely in confined areas and follow all safety protocols.Reliable attendance, strong teamwork skills, and a flexible approach to multitasking. Why Work Here? You will join a small, tight-knit manufacturing team that values flexibility, teamwork, and shared success. The organization offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including a strong medical plan, dental coverage, 401(k), discretionary bonuses, and generous paid time off. Employees start with 14 days of PTO (prorated from the start date), with an additional day added each year up to 24 days, plus paid closure from Christmas through New Year's and 48 hours of ESST time per year. The culture emphasizes mutual support, open communication, and recognition for hard work, providing a stable environment where you can grow your skills and take on diverse responsibilities. Work Environment You will work in a small manufacturing facility of approximately 25 employees, where a small-company mentality means you will wear many hats and perform tasks beyond a narrow job description. The facility is not climate controlled, so it can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter, and some areas can become dusty and dirty. Personal protective equipment such as respirators or masks, goggles, smocks, booties, and other gear is provided. One work area requires a full gown that remains hot regardless of the ambient temperature; in this area, the team encourages frequent breaks and provides water and sports drinks to support hydration and safety. The environment is hands-on, production-focused, and safety-conscious, with an expectation that everyone contributes across multiple functions to keep operations running smoothly! Apply Now and Text Ali your contact information (612.503.3975) Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Shakopee, MN. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $27.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Shakopee,MN. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2026. About Aerotek We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.