What are the responsibilities and job description for the Smokehouse Operator position at Godshall's Quality Meats?
Shift Schedules:
- 1st Shift: 5:00 AM to 3:30 PM
- 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM to 1:00 AM
Schedule: Monday through Friday, plus mandatory Saturdays when needed. Flexibility required.
Join an Employee-Owned Food Manufacturing Team
Since 1945, Godshall’s has produced premium Real Wood Smoked Meats with a strong focus on quality, safety, and teamwork. We are employee-owned, growing fast, and looking for reliable individuals who want long-term careers in food manufacturing.
Position Summary
The Smokehouse Operator is responsible for cooking, curing, and cooling meat products following established programs and quality standards. This role operates smokehouse ovens, monitors cook cycles, performs product testing, and follows strict food safety guidelines to ensure a safe and consistent finished product.
What You’ll Do
- Set and run smokehouse oven programs based on product specifications.
- Load carts of raw product into ovens and unload cooked product into coolers.
- Monitor cook cycles and perform required tests, including:
- pH tests
- Fat and moisture check
- Document all results and production information accurately.
- Report any product or equipment issues to supervisors or QA.
- Empty cinders and ash from smoke generators.
- Perform basic sanitation tasks including cleaning drains, floors, and designated equipment.
- Help production teams as needed.
What We’re Looking For
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift 25–50 lbs.
- Ability to push and pull heavy carts (up to 1,600 lbs. levered).
- Comfortable working in hot and cold environments (32–50°F, plus oven heat).
- Ability to bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motion throughout the shift.
- Ability to wear PPE (earplugs, hairnet, safety glasses, etc.).
- Basic math skills and computer familiarity.
Preferred
- Smokehouse or food manufacturing experience.
- General knowledge of smokehouse operations (training provided).
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety.
Work Environment
- Temperature varies by area (hot ovens, coolers at 32–50°F).
- Floors may be wet or slippery.
- Moderate noise.
- Fast-paced production environment.
- Requires steady physical activity and adherence to safety practices.
Why Work at Godshall’s
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Medical, Dental, Vision (Aetna)
- Company-funded HRA
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Company-paid Short-Term Disability & Basic Life Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Annual Profit Sharing
- Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
- Wellness & Mental Health Support
- Career growth and training opportunities
- Positive, team-focused workplace
Our Core Values
LOVE Treat everyone as equals, develop others, and address issues respectfully.
INSPIRATION Be humble, celebrate wins, and share purpose.
TRUST Show confidence in others, encourage decision-making, and support new ideas.
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: $18.00 - $19.00 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 - $19