Job Description

Job Location: Central Kitchen Oregon - Portland, OR 97214
Position Type: Full Time
Salary Range: $19.02 - $23.25 Hourly

Job Shift: Day
Who We Are
From our humble beginnings to becoming a beloved spot in our community, our story is one of innovation, community, and the pursuit of the perfect scoop. Each flavor tells a story, and every cone holds more than just ice cream—it holds memories, smiles, and moments of pure joy. We pride ourselves on our ever-evolving menu, offering classic favorites and introducing new, exciting flavors to surprise and delight our guests.
Using ice cream as the platform, we pioneer and share experiences that inspire and connect us all.

Position Summary:
The Operator 2 team member is an intermediate-level position on the Spin team. The team’s goal is to produce premium, high-quality ice cream efficiently and package it correctly into pints and tubs. The Operator 2 role builds on the skills and responsibilities of an Operator 1 while supporting the overall production of finished goods. Operator 2 team members have strong familiarity with production equipment and are responsible for monitoring, operating, and troubleshooting machinery to ensure smooth production. This role requires strong attention to detail, a commitment to food and plant safety, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
Essential Functions:
- Monitor and operate manufacturing equipment throughout the production process to ensure consistent performance and product quality
- Set up and disassemble equipment daily, performing both pre-op and post-op checks
- Provide equipment troubleshooting and support, addressing issues promptly to minimize downtime
- Ensure all quality standards are met by maintaining correct equipment settings, performing visual checks, and adhering to established processes
- Record and document all lot codes used during production accurately and systematically
- Follow all safety and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) policies to maintain a safe, clean, and compliant environment
- Support and guide junior team members (Operator 1s) on daily production tasks and proper operating procedures
- Identify and recommend process improvements related to equipment performance or production efficiency
- Adhere to food safety, sanitation, and materials handling standards, ensuring cleanliness and compliance at all times
- Use a pallet jack to transport materials and finished products throughout production
- Escalate any issues to the Spin Lead and/or Spin Supervisor in a timely manner
- Support the Spin Team in achieving daily production goal

QualificationsJoining Our Team

Qualifications:
- At least 9 months working in commercial food preparation, manufacturing, production, or warehouse environment
- Minimum 6 months machine operating experience
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Knowledge and Critical Skills:
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established processes
- Able to work quickly and stay focused in a fast-paced production environment
- Clear communication and solid teamwork skills
- Good problem-solving abilities with the judgment to troubleshoot basic issues or escalate when needed
- Ability to maintain high standards of safety, sanitation, and product quality
- Comfortable operating a variety of commercial kitchen or production equipment • Reliable, consistent, and able to follow SOPs and safety protocols
- Fluency in English
Benefits & Perks:
- Financial Flexibility: Optional Everyday Pay for access to earned wages anytime, plus a 401(k) match with a 50% company match up to 1% of your salary after three months.
- Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance available the first of the month following or coinciding with the hire date, plus FSA, HSA, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity coverage options.
- Mental Health Support: Free, 24/7 access to licensed mental health professionals for you and your family through multiple support options, including text, chat, web, in-person, and group sessions.
- Work-Life Balance: Two consecutive days off weekly, Paid Sick Time (40 hours upon hire, then accrued at 1 hour per 30 hours worked), approximately two weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year for the first two years (increasing to three weeks in years 3–5, and four weeks starting in year 6), 12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave at 70% of pay, and holiday pay for 12 recognized holidays.
- Perks & Discounts: 30% Team Member discount, early access to new flavors, Commuter FSA, UHC Wellness Rewards (earn up to $1,000), and affordable FIGO Pet Insurance.
- Education & Career Growth: Up to $1,800 per year in Educational Assistance, plus career pathing and development opportunities.
- Inclusive Culture: A supportive, welcoming workplace where every Team Member is valued and respected.
Wage Transparency:
We are actively embracing pay transparency by disclosing the hiring wage for this role as $19.02 - $20.29, highlighting its full earning potential within the broader range of $19.02 - $23.25.
Food Allergy Warning
This position requires working in an environment where common food allergens, such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, soy, wheat, and seafood, are present. If you have severe allergies, please take this into consideration when applying. Reasonable accommodations are available to support individuals with disabilities.
X-Ray Machine Warning Only
Please note that this position involves working in an environment where X-ray machines are frequently used. If you have any implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, defibrillators, or other electronic implants, please consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that working around X-ray machines will not interfere with your device or pose any health risks.
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. If you have any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact us.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Salt & Straw fosters an inclusive workplace where all team members and applicants are treated fairly, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected status. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all. If you are a U.S. applicant with a disability and need assistance or a reasonable accommodation to apply, please contact our Talent team at people@saltandstraw.com.
Work Authorization and E-Verify
We participate in E-Verify to confirm work authorization but do not use this process to pre-screen applicants. Qualified candidates with criminal histories are also considered in accordance with applicable laws.
Our Values
Create the Unbelievable
Show Up Generously
Act with Thoughtful Curiosity
Share Human Kindness
Make It Count
These values are the sprinkles on top, guiding us to create happiness through moments of wonder in every scoop, smile, and shared moment. They form the foundation of our brand and shape the culture of our workplace.