Full or Part Time Production Assistant

Stone Milling

Stone milling is a simple and elegant method of producing flour, which retains the integrity of the whole grain. We pride ourselves in milling flour which is as flavorful and aromatic as it is nutritious. Our wholesale partners range from grocery stores and co-ops, to bakeries and restaurants, to retailers and home bakers. This is important work that contributes to the strength of our region’s grain economy.

Who We’re Seeking

This position is unique in that it requires diligent focus while executing clear processes. We are looking for someone who brings a positive attitude, a willingness to collaborate, a commitment to create the highest quality products possible, and a desire to be a part of strengthening our regional grain value chain.

Being a miller is a manufacturing job and a craft. It is inherently repetitive and simple, but it is a critical job that requires attentive observation and adjustments. The nuances of flour milling with natural stones provides an opportunity to learn valuable skills that have no ceiling in terms of mastery. The job can be loud, physically challenging, solitary, and dusty. It is likewise creative, meaningful, flexible, and engaging.

Responsibilities:

• Independently operating stone mills
• Operating an electric forklift
• Maintaining accurate records
• Communicating openly and effectively with coworkers and managers
• Assisting with retail packaging production and order fulfillment
• Following cleaning and maintenance procedures

 

Desired Qualifications / Skills / Experience:

• Ability to work alone and stay engaged
• Capable of lifting 50lb objects (bags of flour) as well as execution of other physical tasks, repeatedly
• Commitment to learning new skills
• Understanding the “bigger picture” and the role the mill plays in our regional grain economy
• Interest in the end uses of stone milled flour (baking and pastry)

 

Work Environment:

• Dust from flour mills requires wearing a respirator
• Collaborative, supportive team dynamic

 

Wages and Benefits:

• To Be Determined based on Qualifications

 

How to Apply

Please send a brief introduction & resume to brandtsfarm@yahoo.com

ADDITIONAL WORK DESCRIPTION

Flour mill operators must adhere to strict sanitation protocols to ensure product safety, including maintaining personal hygiene (clean clothing, hair restraints), following strict pest control measures, preventing contamination from cleaning agents, and ensuring equipment is regularly cleaned. Operators must prevent cross-contamination, use approved sanitizing agents, and maintain airtight storage to avoid moisture and contamination. 

Key Personnel and Operational Sanitation Requirements:

• Personal Hygiene & Protective Gear: Operators should wear clean work clothing, caps to restrain hair, and potentially respirators or masks to prevent inhalation of dust.
• Preventing Contamination: Cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents must be safe, approved for use, and stored properly to avoid contaminating food products.
• Equipment Cleanliness: All surfaces touching flour must be cleaned and maintained. This includes regularly checking flour handling equipment for areas where flour could stagnate, spoil, or become contaminated.
• Pest Control: Effective measures must be implemented to prevent pests from entering production, packing, and storage areas.
• Handling Procedures: In cases where grain is treated with chemicals, operators must use specialized protective gear, such as rubber gloves and shoe covers, and avoid breathing vapors.
• Daily Operation Rules: Operators should avoid touching switches with wet hands, keep clothing tidy, and stop machinery if abnormal noise or debris is detected.
• Storage Maintenance: Storage bins and silos should be kept dust-tight, sealed, and cleaned.
• Allergen Control: Proper labeling and separation of allergens should be managed, with all employees aware of allergen locations. 

 

Common Sanitary Practices in Milling:

• Dust Collection: Ensuring industrial dust collection systems are operational to reduce the risk of infestation and fire.
• Vehicle Inspection: Inspecting delivery vehicles for cleanliness before unloading wheat.
• Facility Maintenance: Keeping the premises free of trash, litter, and debris to avoid pest harborage. 

These requirements ensure compliance with food safety regulations and protect the final product from hazards

Contact Jay Brandt at 330-245-7618 or email brandtsfarm@yahoo.com