What are the responsibilities and job description for the Smokehouse Operator position at Godshall's Quality Meats?
Shift Schedules
1st Shift: 5:00 AM – 3:30 PM (10-hour shifts; weekends as needed; flexibility required)
2nd Shift: 3:30 PM – 1:00 AM (10-hour shifts; weekends as needed; flexibility required)
About Godshall’s
Since 1945, Godshall’s has crafted Real Wood Smoked Meats with a commitment to quality, integrity, and care. Our success is built on dedicated team members who take pride in their work. If you are dependable, detail-oriented, and looking to join a family-owned company that values its people, we encourage you to apply.
Job Summary
The Smokehouse Operator is responsible for cooking, curing, and cooling meat products according to established specifications. This role includes operating smokehouse equipment, monitoring cook cycles, ensuring product quality, maintaining accurate documentation, and supporting a safe, clean production environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Set and monitor smokehouse programs based on product specifications
- Load and unload carts of raw and cooked product
- Verify product quality, temperature, and cooling requirements
- Record pH, fat, and moisture test results as needed
- Report any issues or inconsistencies to supervisors or QA personnel
- Clean smoke generators, drains, equipment, and surrounding work areas
- Complete all required documentation accurately and on time
- Assist production or sanitation teams as needed
Qualifications
Preferred Traits
- Dependable and punctual
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Detail-oriented with a focus on food safety and quality
- Willing to learn, adapt, and grow within the role
Requirements
- Basic math and computer skills (Microsoft experience a plus)
- Previous smokehouse or food processing experience preferred; training provided
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Comfortable working in hot and cold environments (32°–50°F)
- Ability to wear all required PPE (gloves, earplugs, safety glasses, etc.)
Work Environment
This position is located in an active production setting with fluctuating temperatures, moderate noise, and frequent movement. Maintaining safety, cleanliness, and teamwork is essential.
Why Join Godshall’s
Godshall’s offers a supportive, team-oriented culture where your work is valued. We provide comprehensive training, advancement opportunities, and a workplace built on our core values of Love, Inspiration, and Trust.
Employee Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance (Aetna)
- Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) – company-funded deductible support
- Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
- Short-Term Disability & Basic Life Insurance (company-paid)
- 401(k) with Company Match (up to 6%)
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Annual Profit Sharing
- Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
- Protective Footwear Payroll Program
- Wellness & Mental Health Support (Teladoc, AbleTo)
- Opportunities for Growth & Advancement
- Safe, Team-Focused Work Environment
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
At Godshall’s, eligible team members become employee-owners. Shares are earned at no cost, and as the company grows, your ESOP account grows as well. This long-term wealth-building benefit is a core part of who we are.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Have you ever worked in a food production or smokehouse environment before? If so, can you describe your experience with cooking, curing, or operating ovens or similar equipment?
- This job involves monitoring oven programs, recording product temperatures, and following strict food safety procedures. Can you give an example of how you’ve ensured quality or food safety in a previous job?
- This position requires working 12-hour shifts in both hot and cold environments and includes some weekends. Are you comfortable with that schedule and work setting?
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18