Job Listings

This position will be responsible for the inspection of all parts and determining if the parts meet specifications. The position will also be responsible for all documentation associated with the inspection process.

Operate many pieces of large industrial equipment that are used in the operation of the facility. Each equipment operator will be assigned and trained in the operation of one or more pieces of equipment. This position will monitor and control the operation of equipment. Communicate to plant management of any issues during production, assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment, ensuring timely and efficient startup.

We offer a clean working environment with no knife work. Must have ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

The Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector position provides quality standards by monitoring throughout the plant. This includes verification of raw material receipts, taking raw material samples, and verifying finished packaged product. QA Inspectors are required to lift and move raw material samples and boxed products. Team member in overall management of the facility. Expect to work on tests and pilot runs of new and improved products and evaluate the results of the pilot programs. Prepare technical reports because of research and development (R&D). Assist R&D in developing products that are consistent with our expectations for quality, safety, value, and wholesomeness. Responsible for taking product samples, performing various tests, and analyzing the lab results from such test samples, including trending, grading, quality, and functionality validation. Quality control personnel involved also participate in design reviews and provide feedback on error detection for new products and process quality.

Maintenance employees assist with all maintenance functions within the plant. This position performs regular and preventative maintenance for machinery within the plant. Additional responsibilities include assisting other maintenance employees and performing emergency repairs when needed. Will assist with installation, maintenance, and testing of Research and Development equipment associated with initial production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

Responsible for keeping the site clean and well maintained. Duties include but are not limited to warehouse, janitorial and maintenance activities. May operate a forklift and other heavy equipment. May transport materials between locations as required. The position involves physical requirements of walking, standing, squatting, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, twisting and lifting. Work indoors/outdoors, in a wet/cold/hot environment. Lift, push, pull up to 60lbs. All jobs include any other duties as assigned. empirical retains the right to modify these job duties as needed.   Resumen Responsable de mantener el sitio limpio y bien mantenido. Los deberes incluyen, pero no limitado a actividades de almacén, limpieza y mantenimiento. Puede operar un montecargas y otros equipos pesados. El puesto requiere caminar, estar de pie, ponerse en cuclillas, subir escaleras, agacharse, torcerse y levantar peso.  Trabajar adentro/afuera, en un ambiente mojado/frío/caliente. Levantar, empujar, jalar hasta 60 libras. Todos los trabajos incluyen cualquier otra tarea que se asigne. empirical se reserva el derecho de modificar estas tareas según sea necesario.

Operate many pieces of large industrial equipment that are used in the operation of the facility. Each equipment operator will be assigned and trained in the operation of one or more pieces of equipment. This position will monitor and control the operation of equipment. Communicate to plant management of any issues during production, assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment, ensuring timely and efficient startup.

Maintenance employees assist with all maintenance functions within the plant. This position performs regular and preventative maintenance for machinery within the plant. Additional responsibilities include assisting other maintenance employees and performing emergency repairs when needed. Will assist with installation, maintenance, and testing of Research and Development equipment associated with initial production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

We offer a clean working environment with no knife work. Must have ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

This position will be responsible for the inspection of all parts and determining if the parts meet specifications. The position will also be responsible for all documentation associated with the inspection process.

This position will utilize a saw machine to cut parts as directed. Make marks on material for cutting and guide material through saw cuts. The Sawing Machine Operator will clean, maintain lubricant levels, and service equipment to ensure continuous operation of machines.

Sorting of raw material on conveyor belt. Product is coming directly from Tyson. Pick bones/tissue or foreign objects from raw material using your hands. Clean facility utilizing chemicals, hot water and sanitizers to ensure a sanitary environment for food production. Use of a squeegee, water hose, air wand or hand washing production equipment and areas of the production floor. The position involves physical requirements of walking, standing, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, twisting, and lifting. Work in wet/cold (40 degrees)/steamy/hot environment, lift, push, pull up to 60lbs. Work environment is machine intensive. All jobs include any other duties as assigned. empirical retains the right to modify these job duties as needed.   Resumen Clasificación de materia prima en cinta transportadora. El producto viene directamente de Tyson. Recoger huesos/tejidos u objetos extraños de la materia prima utilizando las manos. Limpiar las instalaciones utilizando productos químicos, agua caliente y desinfectantes para garantizar un ambiente higiénico para la producción de alimentos. Utilizar una escobilla de goma, una manguera de agua, una varilla de aire o lavar a mano el equipo de producción y las zonas de la planta de producción. El puesto requiere caminar, estar de pie, subir escaleras, agacharse, torcerse y levantar peso. Trabajar en un ambiente mojado/frío (40 grados) /húmedo/caliente, levantar, empujar, jalar hasta 60 libras. Ambiente de trabajo con uso intensivo de máquinas. Todos los trabajos incluyen cualquier otra tarea que se asigne. empirical se reserva el derecho de modificar estas tareas según sea necesario.

At empirical foods we solve big problems with new thinking.  At every step we design it, build it, continually optimize it, and the empirical IT team is no different.  We are seeking an experienced IT Technician who has the passion to help us reach that next level. 

The Warehouse Coordinator supports daily activities of materials, movement, handling, receiving, loading, unloading, transporting, stacking, shipping, and filling of production orders as well as maintaining inventory. Support empirical’s research and development activities through a hands-on approach for machine development, where machinery is often built, modified, scrapped, re-designed, re-built, and re-modified as part of a continual process of change based on the specific goals and challenges associated with any one project. Require warehouse personnel to be responsible for the receiving, tracking, and issuing of parts during this development process.

The Warehouse Coordinator supports daily activities of materials, movement, handling, receiving, loading, unloading, transporting, stacking, shipping, and filling of production orders as well as maintaining inventory. Support empirical’s research and development activities through a hands-on approach for machine development, where machinery is often built, modified, scrapped, re-designed, re-built, and re-modified as part of a continual process of change based on the specific goals and challenges associated with any one project. Require warehouse personnel to be responsible for the receiving, tracking, and issuing of parts during this development process.

The technician will assist with all mechanical and electrical testing functions that pertain to the implementation and support of equipment and process changes for the company. This position will also coordinate activities for others, including installations, maintenance, and equipment repair.

The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical.  The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is maintained in accordance to established safety standards and company guidelines that support the Rail Operator in carrying out their daily tasks.

Assists Supervision to facilitate production needs to all job classifications. Non Supervision position/helps only. Clean facility utilizing chemicals, hot water and sanitizers to ensure a sanitary environment for food production. Use of a squeegee, water hose, air wand or hand washing production equipment and areas of the production floor. The position involves physical requirements of walking, standing, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, twisting, and lifting. Work in wet/cold (40 degrees) /steamy/hot environment, lift, push, pull up to 60lbs. Work environment is machine intensive. All jobs include any other duties as assigned. empirical retains the right to modify these job duties as needed.   Resumen Asiste a Supervisión para facilitar las necesidades de producción a todas las clasificaciones de trabajo. Puesto de no supervisión/sólo ayuda. Limpiar las instalaciones utilizando productos químicos, agua caliente y desinfectantes para garantizar un ambiente higiénico para la producción de alimentos. Utilizar una escobilla de goma, una manguera de agua, una varilla de aire o lavar a mano el equipo de producción y las zonas de la planta de producción. El puesto requiere caminar, estar de pie, subir escaleras, agacharse, torcerse y levantar peso. Trabajar en un ambiente mojado/frío (40 grados)/húmedo/caliente, levantar, empujar, tirar de hasta 60 libras. Ambiente de trabajo con uso intensivo de máquinas. Todos los trabajos incluyen cualquier otra tarea que se asigne. empirical se reserva el derecho de modificar estas tareas según sea necesario.

This position is responsible for handling both raw material and finished product, ensuring both meet acceptable criteria. Maintain accurate tracking and inventories of those materials. Ensure adequate raw material is always available to the production floor, coordinate trailer movement, and communicate with Transportation and Quality Assurance personnel to address any problems. Ensure finished product inventory is available for sales order fulfillment and shipping order fulfillment.

Scholarship recipients will attend Mitchell Technical College on a full-ride scholarship from empirical and have a job awaiting them after successful completion of their program. After in-depth research, empirical chose Mitchell Technical College for its rigorous curriculum, quality instruction, and high recognition proven to prepare students to enter the workforce. The intent is to give scholarship recipients with no manufacturing background or educational foundation the ability to start a career.   PROGRAM STUDY Automation Controls/SCADA, AAS Degree 5 Semesters | 82 Credits   SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS  - Scholarships remove any need for additional financial aid. - The Gateway Scholarship covers: - Tuition, books, and fees. - Housing and meal plan ELIGIBILITY - High School/GED diploma (by application deadline). - Must be 18 years or older (at the time of signing student housing lease agreement). - Interest in pursuing a technical degree (AAS)and Technical Career with empirical. - Scholarship is contingent on acceptance to Mitchell Tech College & signing a two-year employment agreement.   HOW IT WORKS - Accepted applicants will be required to move to Mitchell, SD prior to the school start date (last week in August). - Students will attend their designated program full-time and have regular check-ins with empirical. - Maintain good standing with Mitchell Tech - Have and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA - Graduate and receive their AAS degree START YOUR CAREER Upon satisfactory completion of the program, students are offered full-time employment with empirical. As skilled members of the empirical team, you will enjoy a great salary, exceptional benefits, opportunities for advancement, and long-term job security.   As a cooperative program, an application process must be completed with empirical and Mitchell Technical College  

This position supervises plant production efforts including start-up, actual production, and daily clean-up operations. Responsible for quality safety and cleanliness. This role will also support research and development activities as well as assist in testing and pilot runs as needed. This role provides ongoing training and development of employees.

The technician will assist with all mechanical and electrical testing functions that pertain to the implementation and support of equipment and process changes for the company. This position will also coordinate activities for others, including installations, maintenance, and equipment repair.

The technician will assist with all mechanical and electrical testing functions that pertain to the implementation and support of equipment and process changes for the company. This position will also coordinate activities for others, including installations, maintenance, and equipment repair.

Operate many pieces of large industrial equipment that are used in the operation of the facility. Each equipment operator will be assigned and trained in the operation of one or more pieces of equipment. This position will monitor and control the operation of equipment. Communicate to plant management of any issues during production, assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment, ensuring timely and efficient startup.

The Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector position monitors quality standards throughout the facility and surrounding grounds. This may include verification of raw material receipt, product sample collection (raw and finished), and finished product verification tasks. QA Inspectors are required to lift and move raw material samples and boxed products. QA inspectors are team members in the overall management of the facility. QA Inspectors may be expected to conduct tests and pilot runs of new or improved products and evaluate the results of these pilot programs. QA inspectors may prepare technical reports detailing results of research and development (R&D). QA Inspectors may assist R&D in developing products that are compliant with our quality, safety, value, and wholesomeness expectations. QA Inspectors are responsible for collecting samples and performing various tests. QA inspectors may be required to analyze the results from testing. This analysis may include trending results, evaluating quality and functionality, and further validation of the findings. QA Inspectors may also be expected to provide feedback and insight regarding equipment and program design.

This position is primarily responsible for facilitating/providing the training of hourly and management support employees. Duties will also involve assisting with new hire orientation and equipment specific training, which includes safety and product quality elements. The operations trainer position is responsible for the evaluation of plant training, enhancing the on-boarding process, and the recommendation of the appropriate courses of action to management.

Operate many pieces of large industrial treatment equipment used in the operation of the facility. Each Water Treatment Operator will be assigned and trained in the operation of one or more pieces of equipment. This position will monitor and control the operation of equipment. Communicate to plant management of any issues during production, assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment, ensuring timely and efficient start-up.

Assist with engineering and/or construction projects, which include layout and design, specification development and preparation, and data collection. Assist with the specific functions of the engineering department, applying knowledge of engineering technology. In addition, the position will work with Engineering on Research and Development (R&D) activities such as creating, modifying, or fixing designs, as well as supporting other Engineering related R&D activities.

The technician will assist with all mechanical and electrical testing functions that pertain to the implementation and support of equipment and process changes for the company. This position will also coordinate activities for others, including installations, maintenance, and equipment repair.

Operation of propane forklift to load/unload trailers on dock and freezer. Move combos throughout production facility as needed. Utilize forklift inside and outside of facility to move other items that may require a forklift (i.e. tubs, combos, pallets). Clean facility utilizing chemicals, hot water and sanitizers to ensure a sanitary environment for food production. Use of a squeegee, water hose, air wand or hand washing production equipment and areas of the production floor. The position involves physical requirements of walking, standing, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, twisting, and lifting. Work in wet/cold (40 degrees) /steamy/hot environment, lift, push, pull up to 60lbs. Work environment is machine intensive. All jobs include any other duties as assigned. empirical retains the right to modify these job duties as needed.   Resumen Manejo de montecarga de propano para cargar/descargar remolques en muelle y congelador. Mover combos por toda la planta de producción según sea necesario. Utilizar montecarga dentro y fuera de las instalaciones para mover otros artículos que puedan requerir un montecarga (es decir, cubas, combos, palets). Limpiar las instalaciones utilizando productos químicos, agua caliente y desinfectantes para garantizar un ambiente higiénico para la producción de alimentos. Utilizar una escobilla de goma, una manguera de agua, una varilla de aire o lavar a mano el equipo de producción y las zonas de la planta de producción. El puesto requiere caminar, estar de pie, subir escaleras, agacharse, torcerse y levantar peso. Trabajar en un ambiente mojado/frío (40 grados) /húmedo/caliente, levantar, empujar, jalar hasta 60 libras. Ambiente de trabajo con uso intensivo de máquinas. Todos los trabajos incluyen cualquier otra tarea que se asigne. empirical se reserva el derecho de modificar estas tareas según sea necesario.

This position is responsible for the preparation of all required returns, reports, and other filings. Will assist in the planning and research of various tax related items and laws.

We are looking for a highly motivated recruiter to join our team.  The Recruiter is responsible for sourcing talent, conducting interviews, and hiring through a variety of pipelines and recruitment programs.

Operation of propane forklift to load/unload trailers on dock and freezer. Move combos throughout production facility as needed. Utilize forklift inside and outside of facility to move other items that may require a forklift (i.e. tubs, combos, pallets). Clean facility utilizing chemicals, hot water and sanitizers to ensure a sanitary environment for food production. Use of a squeegee, water hose, air wand or hand washing production equipment and areas of the production floor. The position involves physical requirements of walking, standing, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, twisting, and lifting. Work in wet/cold (40 degrees) /steamy/hot environment, lift, push, pull up to 60lbs. Work environment is machine intensive. All jobs include any other duties as assigned. empirical retains the right to modify these job duties as needed.   Resumen Manejo de montecarga de propano para cargar/descargar remolques en muelle y congelador. Mover combos por toda la planta de producción según sea necesario. Utilizar montecarga dentro y fuera de las instalaciones para mover otros artículos que puedan requerir un montecarga (es decir, cubas, combos, palets). Limpiar las instalaciones utilizando productos químicos, agua caliente y desinfectantes para garantizar un ambiente higiénico para la producción de alimentos. Utilizar una escobilla de goma, una manguera de agua, una varilla de aire o lavar a mano el equipo de producción y las zonas de la planta de producción. El puesto requiere caminar, estar de pie, subir escaleras, agacharse, torcerse y levantar peso. Trabajar en un ambiente mojado/frío (40 grados) /húmedo/caliente, levantar, empujar, jalar hasta 60 libras. Ambiente de trabajo con uso intensivo de máquinas. Todos los trabajos incluyen cualquier otra tarea que se asigne. empirical se reserva el derecho de modificar estas tareas según sea necesario.

This position is responsible for the machining of parts according to shop drawing specifications.  Activities include the set-up and operation of manual and computerized lathes, mills, and other various machines, power tools, and hand tools required to complete assigned job. Ability to work unassisted in delivering core business and Research and Development (R&D) projects. Assist our research and development efforts by delivering products that are consistent with our expectations for quality, safety, value, and wholesomeness. Participate in R&D's involvement in the following: plant scale up and initial production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

Operate many pieces of large industrial equipment that are used in the operation of the facility. Each equipment operator will be assigned and trained in the operation of one or more pieces of equipment. This position will monitor and control the operation of equipment. Communicate to plant management of any issues during production, assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment, ensuring timely and efficient startup.

At empirical foods we solve big problems with new thinking. At every step we design it, built it, continually optimize it, at the empirical IT team is no different. We’re seeking an experienced Systems Administrator who has the passion to help us reach that next level.   You will be able to leverage cloud computing and on-premise technologies to ensure that empirical foods’ systems are up to date, secure, and ready for what is next in the world of IT.   Top candidates will be working with the latest tools and technologies to help take our business to the next level.

The Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector position provides quality standards by monitoring throughout the plant. This includes verification of raw material receipts, taking raw material samples, and verifying finished packaged product. QA Inspectors are required to lift and move raw material samples and boxed products. Team member in overall management of the facility. Expect to work on tests and pilot runs of new and improved products and evaluate the results of the pilot programs. Prepare technical reports because of research and development (R&D). Assist R&D in developing products that are consistent with our expectations for quality, safety, value, and wholesomeness. Responsible for taking product samples, performing various tests, and analyzing the lab results from such test samples, including trending, grading, quality, and functionality validation. Quality control personnel involved also participate in design reviews and provide feedback on error detection for new products and process quality.

The empirical Fully Connected Scholarship Program was established in the fall of 2020 as a partnership with Garden City Community College with the intention of giving candidates with no manufacturing background a means to move into that environment. The empirical/GCCC partnership provides candidates with both hands-on manufacturing experience and enrollment in a program which provides an accredited AAS or Certificate C credentials. During their time within the facility, individuals work side by side with current employees and contribute to the success of our plant. By doing so, the candidate receives the best view of manufacturing technology we can provide to allow them to understand and experience working within empirical.   YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE The Electro-Mechanical Program is 2-year work-study program where students have an opportunity to develop hands-on work experience while earning an Associate’s degree in GCCC’s Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Program. Individuals receive scholarships to cover the cost of tuition, fees, and books for the program along with competitive pay and part-time work in an empirical manufacturing facility. - Earn on-the-job training and valuable experience at a leading food technology company. - Paid classroom, lab and study time. Part-time work at an empirical manufacturing facility. - Develop invaluable skills such as time management, teamwork and problem-solving. - Customized work schedule to accommodate classes. - Upon successful completion, eligibility for employment at empirical as an electro-mechanical technician with competitive salary and benefits package.    HOW IT WORKS Accepted applicant will be placed into a 12-week work program. Upon successful completion of the work program, individuals will receive a “Fully Connected” scholarship. Successful completion includes but is not limited to attendance, work performance, and demonstrated attitude and aptitude.  Additionally, individuals must: - Maintain good standing in the GCCC Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Program. - Have and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA. - Be able to work at least eight (8) hours per week at empirical during the program. Scholarship recipients will receive full tuition while completing the Fully Connected program (an electro-mechanical curriculum). We offer paid classroom and lab time, with students also working a partial schedule at the empirical plant or new plant construction site. All work is coordinated around and supportive of class, lab, and study commitments. Scholarships are contingent upon signing a 2-year employment agreement.   START YOUR CAREER Upon satisfactory completion of the program, students are offered full-time employment with empirical. As skilled members of the empirical team, you will enjoy a great salary, exceptional benefits , opportunities for advancement and long-term job security.   

This position is a developmental role designed to train individuals to machine parts according to shop drawing specifications. Activities include the set-up and operation of manual and computerized lathes, mills, and other various machines, power tools, and hand tools required to complete assigned job.

Assemble and perform preventative maintenance on company equipment (i.e., pumps, heavy duty block grinders, etc.) in company and customer locations. Assist with all construction duties at plant location. Position will be involved in hands on installation and testing of Research and Development (R&D) equipment associated with production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

Assemble and perform preventative maintenance on company equipment (i.e., pumps, heavy duty block grinders, etc.) in company and customer locations. Assist with all construction duties at plant location. Position will be involved in hands on installation and testing of Research and Development (R&D) equipment associated with production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

Assemble and perform preventative maintenance on company equipment (i.e., pumps, heavy duty block grinders, etc.) in company and customer locations. Assist with all construction duties at plant location. Position will be involved in hands on installation and testing of Research and Development (R&D) equipment associated with production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

The technician will assist with all mechanical and electrical testing functions that pertain to the implementation and support of equipment and process changes for the company. This position will also coordinate activities for others, including installations, maintenance, and equipment repair.

The Systems Tech I position applies knowledge of electronic principles in determining equipment malfunctions and applies skills in restoring equipment to operation. The Systems Tech I is responsible for proper installation, service, and replacement of all electronic equipment, circuit modules, programmable logic controllers, and several other types of electronic equipment. The Systems Tech I maintains and installs communication and power distribution cable and wiring, as required. This position works with maintenance employees in the assembly and disassembly of equipment, as needed. Work on tests and pilot runs for new and improved products and processes as well as fix designs by working with engineers. Participate in Research and Development’s (R&D) involvement in initial production, plant troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects.

The Field Service Technician will assist with all mechanical and electrical functions that pertain to the implementation and support of equipment and process changes for customers and empirical facilities.  Travel to customer sites and other empirical facilities is required.

We are looking for a highly motivated person to develop and maintain SCADA/MES systems. Qualified candidates will have the ability to collaborate and understand the needs of the end user and implement SCADA/MES changes to meet those needs. Will provide plant support for SCADA/MES systems and potentially PLC Logic. Position will also participate in test and pilot runs of new and improved product and evaluate the results.

Learn the basics of empirical’s business processes and procedures to be offered the opportunity of being part of the leadership team within 9-24 months. This position will be immersed in core business processes through participating in roles designed to expose them to strategic learning opportunities that are relevant to long-term roles within the company. The expectation of this position is to excel in operations processes, safety, quality, customer delivery, problem solving, and effective communication. The position will work with various groups and assignments, gradually increasing their responsibility within the organization, to ensure technical and social skills are advancing toward long-term leadership roles within the company. This is an entry level leadership position.

This position will supervise Quality Control (QC) programs at the source plant level, emphasizing product standards and acceptable sanitation conditions. Supervise all plant personnel in the sparselean collection program. Coordinate transfer of these materials to company processing facilities.

Learn the basics of empirical’s business processes and procedures to be offered the opportunity of being part of the leadership team within 9-24 months. This position will be immersed in core business processes through participating in roles designed to expose them to strategic learning opportunities that are relevant to long-term roles within the company. The expectation of this position is to excel in operations processes, safety, quality, customer delivery, problem solving, and effective communication. The position will work with various groups and assignments, gradually increasing their responsibility within the organization, to ensure technical and social skills are advancing toward long-term leadership roles within the company. This is an entry level leadership position.

The empirical internship program is a best-in-class experience. It provides students the unique opportunity to work in a privately held, leading edge, manufacturing technology company. Our internship program helps us to identify future leaders as well as provide an opportunity for interns to experience our culture and see the variety of career paths available at empirical.   Internships are temporary summer positions that last approximately 10-12 weeks. Each intern will be assigned a project(s) affording the opportunity to actively contribute to the manufacturing organization and build a comprehensive understanding of their desired field.   Throughout the internship, you will have the chance to work with our internal teams on the assigned projects as well as meet with upper management to reflect on your personal and professional development.   If applicable, all interns will be considered for full-time positions based on their performance over the course of their internship. Housing provided when needed. Empirical arranges various intern activities including sporting events, dinners, team lunches, etc. to provide opportunities for socializing, professional development, and learning more about the company.