Machine Operator - Watertown, WI

Machine Operator - Watertown, WI

Clasen Quality Chocolate (CQC) is a world‑class manufacturer of chocolate and innovative coatings. We are seeking full‑time Machine Operators / Technicians for our state‑of‑the‑art facility in Watertown, WI. The position offers a starting pay of $29.00 per hour on nights (includes a $3.00 night shift differential) and flexible scheduling options.

Nights: 4:55 pm – 5:25 am.

Option 1:
Wednesday‑Friday, every other Saturday.

Option 2:
Sunday‑Tuesday, every other Saturday.

3‑4 days per week with 8 hours of built‑in overtime. Volunteer extra days are paid at double‑time.

Eligible for a $2,000 sign‑on bonus after successfully completing the introductory period.

The primary purpose of this role is to read and understand coating recipes, produce chocolate and coating in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) procedures, and safety procedures while handling materials. The Technician must be flexible, multi‑task, and maintain a team attitude.

• Read recipes and add ingredients to mixers or bulk tanks, using the plant control system (PCS).
• Collect and test samples at various stages of production; adjust ingredients as needed.
• Operate pre‑refiners, refiners, and conches to achieve desired fineness and viscosity.
• For North Plant: mix, test, refine, and melt ingredients.
• For South Plant: operate chipline depositor, troubleshoot color/shape issues, manage packing equipment, sanitize equipment, and train/certify personnel.
• Complete paperwork, logs and maintain accurate production records.
• Operate forklift and other material‑handling equipment.
• Attend safety and quality meetings, train others as needed, and cover for staff during breaks.

Education / Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3 years of complex industrial experience (machine operation, troubleshooting, mechanical).
• Food manufacturing experience is a plus but not required.
• Experience lifting 55 lbs. preferred.

Skills And Abilities:

• Lift 55 lbs.; stand and walk for a 12‑hour shift.
• Speak, read, and write in English.
• Intermediate math skills (multiplication, division, fractions).
• Work at heights above 10 ft., in extreme heat, and with allergens.
• Positive, can‑do attitude and flexibility for varied tasks.
• Strong multi‑tasking, problem‑solving, decision‑making, and detail orientation.

• Bonus potential – perfect attendance ($300 + quarterly) & year‑end (5 %+).
• Double‑time pay.
• Health, dental, vision insurance (low deductible & copays, LASIK reimbursement, adult orthodontics).
• Company‑paid life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) match – up to 5 %.
• Paid vacation, personal & volunteer days plus 11 holidays.
• On‑site fitness facility.
• Paid maternity/paternity leave.
• Wellness perks – free fruit, insurance discounts, gym and run/walk/bike event reimbursement, free wellness checks.
• Scholarships for employee, spouse, and children.
• Summer camp reimbursement for employees’ children.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee appreciation events.
• Free chocolate and coating.