Operator Cheese factory Heerenveen (33.6 hours)

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  • Heerenveen
  • 33,6 per week
  • Full-time

As an Operator Cheesemaker in a 5-shift job at Cheesemaker Henri Willig, you will work an average of 33.6 hours per week in a technologically advanced production environment where craft and modern production technology come together. You will master the entire process of milk processing and cheese making, from receiving the milk to the finished product. You will work six days and then have four days off. This position is suitable for both entry-level operators looking to progress to All-round Cheesemaker and experienced Cheesemakers.

During an extensive familiarisation period, you will work closely with experienced colleagues who will show you the ropes. After the introductory period, you will be given the opportunity - if you do not already have one - to obtain your Food Technology MBO3 and VOB Cheese MBO4, in addition to the in-house courses and training offered by the Henri Willig Academy. So at Henri Willig Cheese Factory, you will not only start a new job, but your job will be the start of your own growth path!

What will you do

In this role, you will be involved in the entire production process within the cheese factory.

  • You receive and standardise different types of milk, such as cow's, goat's and sheep's milk, so that the production process starts correctly.
  • You prepare cheeses according to more than 100 recipes in a technologically advanced production environment.
  • You administratively process the data necessary to monitor and improve quality and yields.
  • You process the whey created during the cheese-making process.
  • You actively participate in the continuous improvement of processes within the cheese-making facility.

This position suits experienced cheese makers or candidates who have an affinity for process engineering and want to master the craft of cheese making from start to finish.

Behind the Cheese: Jelle and Mina (Heerenveen)
Colleague stories: Behind the Cheese: Jelle and Mina (Heerenveen)

We ask of you

For this operator position, we are looking for someone with an eagerness to learn and technical insight.

  • You have a good command of the Dutch language.
  • You have at least MBO working and thinking level and want to develop further.
  • You have an affinity with process technology, preferably within a food environment.
  • You enjoy working together in a team and are curious about the profession.

The role is suitable for professionals looking to build a career within the dairy industry and develop into an All-round Cheesemaker.

What do we offer?

You will have a position with responsibility, development opportunities and clear terms of employment in accordance with the Dairy CLA.

  • A salary in accordance with the Dairy CLA with a gross monthly salary of € 3,676 based on 33.6 hours per week including 28.7% shift bonus, with the possibility of increasing to € 5,115 gross per month including shift bonus. Experienced Cheesemakers will of course be graded higher than the starting salary.
  • An end-of-year bonus of 5% of your annual salary.
  • Prospect of a permanent appointment with good performance.
  • The opportunity to obtain Food Technology MBO3 and VOB Cheese MBO4 during your employment, in addition to training courses via the Henri Willig Academy.
  • An extensive induction programme by experienced colleagues.
  • Company parties and company outings.

Would you like to work in a 5-shift operation within a modern cheese factory and fully master the craft of cheese making? Then this is a position where you can grow, learn and contribute to award-winning cheeses.

Are you interested?

Then respond with your CV or skills passport and a short motivation of what attracts you to working at Henri Willig. We are very curious about this!

About Henri Willig

Henri Willig is a fast-growing, independent livestock farmer, cheese producer, retailer and exporter that has been successful in the exclusive cheese segment since 1974. Henri Willig has a strong position in the national and international market for Dutch cheese and organic cheese specialities. The total organisation comprises a livestock farm, 2 cheese dairies, 39 shops, a Grand Cafe and a webshop.
At Henri Willig, we actively invest in the development of our employees. Through our Henri Willig Academy, we offer internal training programmes to increase knowledge and skills. In addition, we work with Good Habbitz to attend external courses and training, so that everyone can grow both personally and professionally.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours do you work as an Operator Cheese Making in 5 shifts?

You will work an average of 33.6 hours per week in a five-shift schedule where you will work six days and then have four days off.

What is the salary of an Operator Cheesemaker according to the Dairy CLA?

You will start with a gross monthly salary of €3,676 based on 33.6 hours per week including 28.7 per cent shift bonus and can progress to €5,115 gross per month including shift bonus.

What work will you perform as Operator Cheese Making?

You will receive and standardise milk, prepare cheeses according to more than 100 recipes, process production data administratively, process whey and collaborate on process improvements.

Do you need training for this job?

You have at least MBO working and thinking level 3 and will have the opportunity to obtain Food Technology MBO 3 and VOB Cheese MBO 4.

Is this position suitable for experienced Cheesemakers?

Yes indeed, experienced Cheesemakers are also welcome and will be graded higher on entry