Food and tobacco processing workers
understand what it takes
to make the United States
the largest food exporter in the world.
They operate the equipment that
manufactures food and tobacco products.
These workers load equipment,
and weigh and mix ingredients for recipes.
They monitor production to ensure
products meet quality standards.
Food and tobacco processing workers
specialize in different equipment and products:
Roasting, baking, and drying machine
operators and tenders use ovens,
roasters and other appliances
to prepare food or tobacco products.
Some workers dehydrate fruits,
while others roast tobacco or coffee beans.
Food batchmakers typically work in facilities
that produce baked goods, pasta, and tortillas.
They load and unload ovens,
and make cheese and candy.
Food cooking machine operators and tenders
can fruits and vegetables, fry chips,
bake snack foods, and make chocolates
and other sweets.
Food and tobacco processing workers
work in large manufacturing facilities
with loud machinery.
High temperature equipment
and cold storage environments
are both common.
Most food and tobacco processing workers
work full time.
Some production facilities are open
only a few months each year,
and require workers around the clock
during their season.
While food and tobacco processing workers
learn their skills on the job,
food batchmakers
and cooking machine operators
typically need a high school education.