Powder Plant Operator
Date: 11 Sept 2026
Location: Virginia, CN, IE, A82 CD63
Company: TIRLÁN LIMITED
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Production Operator
12-Month Fixed-Term Contract Virginia, Co. Cavan
About Tirlán
Tirlán is a world-class food and nutrition co-operative, producing high-quality dairy and grain-based ingredients and market-leading consumer and agri brands. Our portfolio includes trusted brands such as Avonmore, Kilmeaden Cheese, Millac, Truly Grass Fed, Premier Milk, mymilkman.ie and GAIN Animal Nutrition.
With annual revenues exceeding €3 billion and a team of over 2,300 employees, we operate a network of manufacturing facilities and agri-retail locations across Ireland and international markets. Our purpose is to nourish the world while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
The Opportunity
Our milk processing facility in Virginia, Co. Cavan has been operating successfully for over 50 years and plays a key role in Tirlán's dairy processing network.
We are currently recruiting for a Production Operator to join our Operations team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting to the Production Manager, the successful candidate will support the safe, efficient and high-quality operation of processing and drying activities within the plant.
This role operates on a shift pattern which includes days, nights and weekend working.
Key Responsibilities
As a Production Operator, you will:
- Operate and monitor production plant equipment in line with operational procedures and safety standards.
- Support the operation of drying facilities responsible for the production of dairy powders including EMP and MPP.
- Operate evaporation, filtration and processing systems to ensure optimal plant performance.
- Support milk separation, cream dispatch and associated production activities.
- Manage milk permeate, SMC and raw material intake and dispatch processes.
- Assist with vegetable oil intake and handling operations.
- Monitor and achieve agreed KPIs relating to safety, quality, hygiene, efficiency, throughput, energy usage and waste reduction.
- Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), food safety requirements and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Maintain a clean, safe and organised working environment.
- Record operational data accurately and support process improvement initiatives.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across production, maintenance and quality teams.
- Undertake additional duties as required by management.
Skills & Experience
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Previous experience in a manufacturing, production or process environment.
- Plant operator experience within food, dairy, beverage or related industries would be advantageous.
- Good technical aptitude and an ability to understand plant operations and production processes.
- Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to continuous improvement.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Computer literacy with the ability to utilise production systems and interpret operational data.
- A strong commitment to safety, quality and operational excellence.
Why Join Tirlán?
At Tirlán, we are committed to developing our people and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Joining our Virginia facility offers the opportunity to:
- Work in a modern food manufacturing environment.
- Be part of a collaborative and supportive team.
- Develop valuable technical and operational skills.
- Contribute to the production of world-class dairy ingredients supplied to global markets.
- Gain experience within one of Ireland's leading food and nutrition businesses.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Tirlán, we value diversity of thought, experience and background. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every colleague feels respected, supported and empowered to succeed.
We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates irrespective of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, family status, civil status or any other protected characteristic.
Join Our Talent Community
Interested in a future career with Tirlán? Visit www.tirlan.com/careers to explore current opportunities and register for job alerts.
Tirlán is a Values-Based Organisation committed to excellence, innovation, collaboration and sustainability.
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