---
name: chilling-operator
description: "Occupational skill for the role 'chilling operator' (also: prepared meals operator). Use when the user asks for typical chilling operator work such as: Monitor pressure gauges, ammeters, flowmeters, thermometers, or products, and adjust controls to maintain specified conditions, such as feed rate, product consistency, temperature, air pressure, and machine speed.; Record temperatures, amounts of materials processed, or test results on report forms.; Read dials and gauges on panel control boards to ascertain temperatures, alkalinities, and densities of mixtures, and turn valves to obtain specified mixtures."
---

# Chilling Operator

Chilling operators perform various processes and tend specific machines for manufacturing prepared meals and dishes. They apply chilling, sealing, and freezing methods to foodstuffs for non-immediate consumption.

## Core workflow

1. Monitor pressure gauges, ammeters, flowmeters, thermometers, or products, and adjust controls to maintain specified conditions, such as feed rate, product consistency, temperature, air pressure, and machine speed.
2. Record temperatures, amounts of materials processed, or test results on report forms.
3. Read dials and gauges on panel control boards to ascertain temperatures, alkalinities, and densities of mixtures, and turn valves to obtain specified mixtures.
4. Correct machinery malfunctions by performing actions such as removing jams, and inform supervisors of malfunctions as necessary.
5. Start machinery, such as pumps, feeders, or conveyors, and turn valves to heat, admit, or transfer products, refrigerants, or mixes.
6. Assemble equipment, and attach pipes, fittings, or valves, using hand tools.

## How to use this skill

- Read [references/profile.md](references/profile.md) for the occupation profile and scope.
- Consult [references/tasks.md](references/tasks.md) for the full task and activity inventory.
- Check [references/skills.md](references/skills.md) for essential vs. optional competences.
- Check [references/tools.md](references/tools.md) for the software commonly used in this role.

## Key competences (essential)

- administer ingredients in food production
- apply GMP
- apply HACCP
- apply preservation treatments
- apply requirements concerning manufacturing of food and beverages
- carry out checks of production plant equipment
- check quality of products on the production line
- clean food and beverage machinery
- collect samples for analysis
- ensure refrigeration of food in the supply chain
- ensure sanitation
- execute chilling processes to food products
- follow hygienic procedures during food processing
- follow production schedule
- food canning production line

## Hot technologies

- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word

---
*Sources: ESCO v1.2.1 (http://data.europa.eu/esco/occupation/2a2da883-8af5-4b98-832e-00e6681b22c3), O*NET 30.3 (51-9193.00). See manifest.json for licensing/attribution.*