Job Summary

The Utility Team Associate is a highly cross-trained operations professional who supports all areas of production and logistics at Chippewa Valley Bean. Under the direction of the Plant Manager, this position develops the knowledge and skills to perform work across the entire manufacturing process, from receiving the raw product through processing, warehousing, and shipping finished goods. As one of the facility’s most versatile team members, the Utility Team Associate develops expertise across multiple departments and provides operational support across multiple departments to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production.

During harvest, the associate rotates through a variety of positions to support production demands, including truck unloading, raw product drier operation, receiving equipment setup, and basic equipment maintenance. During the non-harvest season, the role works collaboratively with warehouse, logistics, production, and maintenance teams to support daily operations while continuing to expand knowledge and skills across the facility.

This position requires safe and proficient forklift operation, strong communication across shifts, adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Standard Sanitation Operating Procedures (SSOPs), and HACCP requirements, and a commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment. The Utility Team Associate plays an important role in supporting Chippewa Valley Bean’s commitment to producing safe, high-quality food products that meet customer expectations and BRC Global Food Safety standards.

Chippewa Valley Bean seeks individuals who are dependable, mechanically inclined, adaptable, quality-focused, and take pride in continuously learning new skills while contributing to the success of the entire operation.

Key Responsibilities

Production Operations

• Operate and monitor raw product driers
• Set up and operate raw product receiving equipment
• Learn mill operations
• Learn automatic bagging operations
• Support production throughout all processing areas

Warehouse & Logistics

• Load trucks and containers with finished product
• Prepare customer orders
• Tote and bag finished product
• Manage warehouse inventory
• Perform inventory cycle counts

Equipment & Maintenance

• Perform minor equipment adjustments
• Assist maintenance personnel
• Identify equipment concerns
• Help maintain efficient operations

Food Safety & Quality

• Follow HACCP, SOPs, and SSOPs
• Support BRC Global Food Safety requirements
• Report food safety, product quality, and equipment concerns immediately to management
• Maintain accurate product traceability
• Participate in Food Safety training
• Participate in OSHA training

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous forklift experience preferred – training and certification provided
• Ability to safely operate or learn to operate powered industrial equipment
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work in varying production environments

Preferred

• Manufacturing experience
• Food processing experience
• Agricultural or grain handling experience
• Demonstrated willingness to learn multiple production processes
• Mechanical troubleshooting skills
• Equipment operation experience

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 110 lbs

Work schedule

Shift: 1st shift, typically 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Work Conditions

Work hours vary based on facility operations:

• Non‑harvest season: Approximately 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday, with variable hours between 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Friday schedules depend on production needs.
• Harvest season: Weekend work may be required; weekly hours may increase to 65-70 hours.
• This is an hourly position and eligible for benefits.

This job description is intended to describe the essential functions and general responsibilities of the position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Chippewa Valley Bean reserves the right to modify or assign additional responsibilities as the business needs change.

Pay: $23.00 - $27.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) 4% Match
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Safety equipment provided
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person