Cheesemaker Resume Example and Template

A strong cheesemaker resume demonstrates hands-on cheese production knowledge, understanding of cultures and enzymes, and food safety compliance. Include experience with multiple cheese types and any artisan credentials or awards.

Creameries and dairy producers look for cheesemakers who understand flavor development and consistency. They value attention to detail, food safety discipline, and ability to troubleshoot production issues.

Also searched as

Head Cheesemaker, Cheesemaking Apprentice

Emma McCarthy: Cheesemaker

Waterbury, Vermont, United States

Summary

Artisan cheesemaker with 7 years of production experience in certified organic creameries. Expertise in aged and fresh cheese varieties including cheddar, gouda, and farmstead styles. Produced 40,000 pounds of cheese annually; achieved 12 cheese competition awards; certified in food safety and SQF cheese production protocols.

Work Experience

Head Cheesemaker, Meadowbrook Organic Creamery

Apr 2020 – Present. Certified organic, 15,000 lbs annual production

• Managed all cheese production from milk intake through aging and packaging
• Supervised 2 assistant cheesemakers; trained staff on production protocols and food safety
• Engineered new farmstead cheddar recipe winning bronze at 2024 American Cheese Society competition
• Maintained HACCP compliance and SQF certification; conducted regular safety audits

Cheesemaker, Stonehedge Creamery

Jun 2018 – Mar 2020. Artisan creamery, 8 cheese varieties

• Produced aged gouda, gruyere, and fresh feta varieties; processed 200 to 300 gallons daily
• Monitored cultures, rennet, and temperature; maintained consistent flavor and texture profiles
• Managed cheese aging in 3 separate caves; rotated and maintained proper humidity and temperature
• Troubleshot production issues including culture problems and uneven curd setting

Cheesemaking Apprentice, Common Milk Cooperative

Feb 2017 – May 2018. Farm-based creamery, farmstead cheese focus

• Learned cheesemaking fundamentals in hands-on apprenticeship with master cheesemaker
• Participated in production of 4 cheese varieties; studied culture science and aging
• Learned proper cleaning and sanitation protocols for all equipment
• Assisted with cheese competitions and farmer market sales

Education

Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese

Diploma, Artisan Cheesemaking. Sep 2016 – Dec 2016

Skills

Cheese production and formulation, Culture and enzyme management, Milk testing and handling, Aging and storage management, Flavor and texture assessment, Food safety and HACCP, Equipment maintenance, Production troubleshooting, Packaging and labeling, Record keeping and traceability

Languages

English, Irish

Certificates and Awards

• Artisan Cheesemaking Diploma, Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese, 2016
• SQF Food Safety Certification Level 2, Safe Quality Food Institute, 2021

Why this look works

Cheesemaking is craftsmanship rooted in tradition and science. An artisan, refined layout that conveys both technical skill and passion for quality works well. Warm, inviting design reflects the craft culture of cheese production.

Resume tips for this job

• Include specific cheese types you've made and awards won. Cheddar production is different from gouda aging; showing specific expertise matters.
• Highlight food safety and SQF certifications. These are non-negotiable in modern creameries and show professional standards.
• Show production volumes and growth. Making 10,000 lbs annually is different from 40,000 lbs; scale demonstrates your capacity.

Common questions

Do I need formal training to be a cheesemaker?

Many creameries hire people for apprenticeships and train on the job. A formal diploma from an artisan cheese school like VIAC significantly improves your hiring prospects and helps you advance to lead roles faster.

What's an SQF certification and why does it matter?

SQF (Safe Quality Food) is a food safety standard that many buyers and retailers require. Level 2 is common for smaller creameries. Having this certification shows you understand modern food safety and quality control.

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The person, employers and numbers in this example are fictional, written to show what a strong resume for this job looks like.