Artisan Ice Cream Production & Operations Associate

Ida’s Artisan Ice Cream & Treats is a Chicago-based, small-batch ice cream company rooted in culinary standards, disciplined production, and community connection.

We craft artisan ice cream and frozen desserts for both retail guests and wholesale partners, producing every batch in-house with precise recipes, careful ingredient handling, and strict food safety practices. From scaling and hand-packing to labeling and fulfillment, our work is hands-on and detail-driven.

We are building a structured, standards-oriented kitchen operation that values consistency, cleanliness, and professionalism as much as creativity.

Made in Chicago. Produced with care. Served with soul.

Role Description

Ida’s Artisan Ice Cream & Treats is hiring a Production & Operations Associate to support our small-batch kitchen and wholesale operations.

This role combines hands-on production, strict sanitation standards, ingredient and inventory management, and multi-format packaging for retail and wholesale customers.

We are looking for people who value precision, food safety, organization, and consistency in a disciplined kitchen environment. This is not a manufacturing plant; it is a small, systems-driven team where standards matter.

Core Responsibilities

Small-Batch Ice Cream Production

• Scale ingredients accurately using weight-based recipes.
• Monitor temperature, timing, and texture during batch production.
• Maintain detailed batch logs and production records.
• Evaluate product consistency and uphold quality standards.
• Sanitize and operate small-batch ice cream equipment responsibly.

Inventory & Ingredient Management

• Follow FIFO (First In, First Out) rotation standards.
• Conduct regular inventory counts and report discrepancies.
• Maintain organized freezer and dry storage areas.
• Support ingredient ordering and prep planning.

Hand-Packing & Multi-Format Packaging

• Hand-pack ice cream into various container sizes (retail pints, quarts, bulk, catering, and wholesale formats).
• Incorporate mix-ins consistently according to standardized recipes.
• Ensure accurate portioning and clean presentation.
• Apply correct labels including ingredient and allergen information.
• Inspect containers before freezing and staging.

Sanitation & Safety

• Adhere strictly to food safety, allergen, and sanitation standards.
• Sanitize tools, equipment, and work surfaces before and after use.
• Maintain organized, clean, and compliant production spaces.
• Support adherence to local and state health regulations.

Retail & Wholesale Fulfillment

• Pick, pack, and stage orders accurately for retail and wholesale clients.
• Verify quantities, packaging specifications, and labeling before release.
• Maintain organized staging areas for outgoing product.

Teamwork & Professionalism

• Communicate clearly with supervisors and teammates
• Follow schedules, systems, and procedures
• Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and accountability

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Ability to stand for extended periods in a production environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in cold storage/freezer conditions.
• Ability to follow written recipes, labeling requirements, and food safety procedures accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and consistency across batches and packaging.
• Ability to work scheduled shifts consistently and reliably.

Preferred (Not Required)

• 1+ year experience in a kitchen, bakery, café, or food production environment.
• Experience with food packaging, labeling standards, or multi-SKU environments.
• Familiarity with inventory tracking or ingredient management.
• Illinois Food Handler Certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire).

What We Look For

• Strong attention to detail and pride in doing things correctly.
• Accountability in a small team environment where every shift matters.
• Organized work habits and respect for shared spaces.
• Clear, professional communication with supervisors and teammates.
• A steady, disciplined approach to repetitive, hands-on work.
• This position offers a structured, hands-on kitchen environment where precision, cleanliness, and teamwork are essential. We are seeking individuals who take pride in consistent execution and…