Water Systems Technician
Milbank, SD - USA
Job Summary
JOB DESCRIPTION
Position Summary
The Water Systems Technician supports the daily operation monitoring and basic maintenance of plant water systems used to supply potable process and auxiliary water throughout the facility. This role performs routine sampling testing inspections and documentation activities to support compliance with FDA Grade A Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) requirements and Valley Queen internal standards.
The Water Systems Technician works closely with the Manufacturing Water Systems Specialist and the Water Treatment Systems Specialist providing hands-on support to ensure water systems operate reliably and water used in manufacturing sanitation and utilities remains safe and compliant.
Essential Functions
Water Sampling Testing & Monitoring
- Perform routine water sampling and testing according to established schedules SOPs and PMO Chapter 7 requirements.
- Conduct basic testing for microbial chemical and physical water quality parameters as assigned.
- Operate verify and assist with calibration checks of water testing and monitoring equipment.
- Accurately complete required logs records and checklists for water systems.
Water System Inspections & Support
- Conduct routine visual inspections of water treatment storage and distribution systems.
- Assist with monitoring filtration units RO systems softeners UV systems and chemical treatment systems under the direction of specialists.
- Identify abnormal conditions trends or equipment concerns and promptly escalate to leadership.
- Support basic troubleshooting cleaning and preventative maintenance activities for water systems.
- Assist with verification of sanitary conditions at manufacturing points of water use including CIP and sanitation systems.
Documentation & Compliance Support
- Maintain accurate records related to water sampling results system checks and equipment inspections.
- Follow established SOPs SSOPs and safety procedures related to water systems and testing.
- Support audits and inspections by gathering documentation and assisting during walkthroughs as directed.
- Report results and observations clearly and promptly to the appropriate specialist or supervisor.
Training & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Participate in required training related to water systems food safety and plant safety.
- Work collaboratively with Manufacturing Sanitation Maintenance Quality Assurance and Technical Services teams.
- Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) plant safety requirements and company policies at all times.
- Support continuous improvement efforts related to water system reliability efficiency and compliance.
Competencies
- Attention to Detail
- Dependability
- Basic Technical Aptitude
- Communication Skills
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Time Management
- Problem Awareness & Escalation
- Willingness to Learn
- Safety Awareness
- Documentation Accuracy
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibility.
Work Environment
This position operates in office plant laboratory and utility environments. Exposure may include temperature variations noise chemicals moving mechanical parts vibration and wet or humid conditions.
Position Type / Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Typical hours may include weekdays with some early mornings evenings weekends or holidays based on operational and regulatory needs.
Travel
No travel or minimal travel (less than 5%) expected.
Required Education Experience & Certifications
High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical training preferred.
Prior experience in manufacturing utilities sanitation maintenance or laboratory support preferred.
Ability to follow written procedures and accurately complete documentation.
Basic computer skills including data entry or electronic logs
Preferred Education Experience & Certifications
Experience in dairy or food manufacturing environments.
Familiarity with water systems sanitation or CIP systems.
Coursework or training in environmental science water technology or food safety.
Bilingual in English/Spanish.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications
Minimum age requirement is 18 years.
Other Duties
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of responsibilities duties or tasks. Responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.
rotating schedule
12-hour day shifts
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
Valley Queen Cheese located in Milbank, South Dakota is proud to be an integral part of national and global partnerships while still calling our same small town “home”.