What are the responsibilities and job description for the Smokehouse Operator position at Godshall's Quality Meats?
Schedule: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday, plus mandatory Saturdays when needed. Flexibility is required.
About Godshall's
Godshall's Quality Meats is a family-owned, employee-owned (ESOP) smoked meat products company based in Lebanon, PA. We believe in treating every team member as an equal, celebrating wins together, and trusting each other to do great work.
About the Role
As a Smokehouse Operator, you are at the heart of our production process. You will run the ovens, load and unload product, monitor cook cycles, and perform the quality checks that keep our products safe and meeting specification. If you take pride in doing things right and want to grow with a team that does too, this is a great place to build a career.
What You Will Do
- Set oven controllers to the correct program based on product specifications
- Load carts of raw product into the smokehouses, and unload cooked product into the chill cooler
- Monitor cook cycles and test samples throughout the process
- Perform pH, fat, and moisture tests, plus other quality checks at required intervals
- Complete all required documentation accurately and on time
- Report any inconsistencies to your supervisor, Quality Assurance, or manager
- Empty cinder and ash from smoke generators as needed
- Sanitize drains, floors, and equipment at scheduled intervals
- Monitor the work area for food safety concerns such as condensation
- Assist with production in other areas as needed
What We Are Looking For
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy
- Basic math skills, comfort using computers, and familiarity with Microsoft programs
- Team-player mindset, willing to give and accept constructive feedback
- General smokehouse experience is a plus, but we will train the right person
Working Conditions
- Work is performed in a USDA-regulated food manufacturing plant
- Temperatures vary by area. Coolers are refrigerated between 32 and 50 degrees, and smokehouse areas can be very warm
- Flooring can be slippery at times, and noise levels are moderate
- Personal Protective Equipment is required and provided, including hairnet, beard net, safety eyewear, cut-resistant gloves, slip-resistant footwear, earplugs, and hard hat
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to stand for extended periods
- Must be able to repeatedly lift over 25 lbs, and push or pull levered weights between 25 and 1,600 lbs
- Must be able to bend, kneel, squat, reach, and grasp routinely throughout the shift
Why Join Godshall's
- Family-owned, stable, and growing
- People-first culture built on respect and teamwork
- Opportunities for advancement
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision (Aetna)
- HRA, Company helps pay your deductible
- Company-paid Short-Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance
- 401(k) with company match, up to 6 percent
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Annual profit sharing
- Flexible Spending Accounts (Health and Dependent Care)
- Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
- Protective footwear payroll program
- Wellness and mental health support (Teladoc, AbleTo)
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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