Shift Miller
WHO WE ARE
Cairnspring Mills is building a regenerative grain supply chain by creating regional, human‑scale flour mills rooted in local farming communities. Our purpose is to lift farmers out of commodity structures, restore soil health, strengthen regional food systems, and deliver identity‑preserved grains and flours that nourish people and communities. We operate with a strong values-based culture grounded in respect, accountability, and collaboration.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING
The Shift Miller oversees milling operations during their assigned shift, ensuring the safe, efficient, and consistent production of high-quality flour products. This role monitors and adjusts milling systems, maintains process control, troubleshoots operational issues, supports food safety and sanitation programs, and provides day-to-day leadership for shift team members. The Shift Miller serves as the primary operational resource during their shift and plays a critical role in maintaining product quality, production efficiency, and equipment performance.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Milling Operations
· Operate, monitor, and adjust milling systems to achieve production goals and product specifications
· Monitor process conditions, production flow, equipment settings, and control systems throughout the shift
· Execute safe and efficient startup, shutdown, and product changeover procedures
· Coordinate with granary operations to ensure adequate grain supply and process continuity
· Identify and respond to process deviations, equipment alarms, and operational concerns
· Troubleshoot milling issues and implement corrective actions to maintain product quality and production efficiency
· Document milling parameters, production results, downtime events, and operational exceptions
· Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance yield, efficiency, and product consistency
Food Safety & Quality Assurance
· Conduct in-process quality checks and verify compliance with established product specifications
· Follow and enforce Food Safety Plans, GMPs, sanitation requirements, and company quality standards
· Collaborate with Food Safety & Quality personnel to address quality concerns and process deviations
· Conduct pre-shift and post-shift sanitation inspections
· Oversee and verify completion of routine cleaning and sanitation activities
· Participate in deep cleaning activities during maintenance shutdowns and regulatory sanitation events
· Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready work environment
Maintenance & Equipment Support
· Perform routine equipment inspections and operational checks
· Complete minor equipment adjustments and maintenance tasks within assigned responsibilities
· Identify and report equipment issues, maintenance needs, and reliability concerns
· Document maintenance activities and communicate equipment performance issues to leadership
· Support preventative maintenance activities and equipment troubleshooting efforts
· Assist in minimizing downtime through proactive monitoring and response
Inventory & Material Handling
· Track raw material consumption, flour production, and milling consumables during assigned shifts
· Safely operate forklifts and material handling equipment to support production and warehouse activities
· Move inventory, load and unload materials, and maintain material flow throughout the facility
· Assist with inventory accuracy through proper documentation and reporting
· Monitor supply levels and communicate replenishment needs
Leadership & Safety
· Provide guidance, training, and support to Assistant Millers and other shift team members
· Promote adherence to safety, food safety, quality, and operational procedures
· Coordinate activities across the shift to ensure efficient workflow and production continuity
· Communicate shift performance, operational issues, maintenance concerns, and production results during shift handoffs
· Support a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement
· All other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
· High school diploma or equivalent
· Two (2) or more years of experience in food manufacturing, grain processing, milling, production operations, or a related industrial environment
· Experience operating or monitoring industrial processing equipment
· Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
· Ability to read, interpret, and document production information
· Forklift experience and ability to obtain and/or maintain certification
· Strong communication and organizational skills
· Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions
· Availability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed
· Basic computer, math, and recordkeeping skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
· Previous flour milling, grain handling, or cereal processing experience
· Previous lead, trainer, or shift leadership experience
· Experience working within food safety and quality systems, including GMP environments
· Mechanical aptitude and experience performing minor equipment maintenance
· HACCP, food safety, or process operations training
· Experience in startup, commissioning, or expansion of a manufacturing facility
POSITION LOGISTICS
Reports to: Head Miller and/or Assistant Head Miller
Working Locations: On-site at Blue Mountain Mill in Pendleton, Oregon.
Shift Structure: Rotating
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
· Base salary of $22.50-$26.50
· Comprehensive benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life)
· Retirement plan
Cairnspring Mills is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. All salaries are commensurate with experience.
Pay: $22.50 - $26.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
