Join Valio Ltd: A Career with Finland’s Dairy Pioneer and a Global Leader in Nutrition Innovation
About Valio Ltd: Finland’s Dairy Pioneer and a Global Leader in Nutrition Innovation
Valio Ltd is widely recognized as one of Finland’s most influential and respected food companies, and one of the most advanced dairy manufacturers in the world. With a rich history that stretches back more than 120 years, Valio has grown from a local cooperative of small Finnish dairy farmers into a global powerhouse in milk processing, nutrition science, and sustainable food technology. Today, the company stands as a symbol of Finnish quality, purity, and innovation, producing more than 1,000 different dairy and food products that reach consumers in over 60 countries.
Founded in 1905, Valio’s story began with a simple but powerful mission: to improve the lives of Finnish farmers and deliver high-quality dairy products to Finnish families. The company was established as a cooperative model—a structure it still maintains—ensuring that the farmers remain owners, decision-makers, and beneficiaries of the company’s success. This model has helped maintain strict control over raw milk quality, animal welfare standards, and sustainable farming practices, allowing Valio to guarantee exceptionally high purity across all its products.
Valio’s product portfolio is one of the most diverse in the global dairy industry. The company produces milk, butter, cheese, yogurt, cream, infant formulas, lactose-free products, milk powders, protein supplements, ready-to-drink beverages, and functional nutrition solutions. Among its most notable innovations is the development of lactose-free dairy—an area where Valio is considered a global pioneer. Using advanced filtration and enzyme technologies, Valio was among the first in the world to create fully lactose-free milk, yogurt, and cheese, making dairy accessible to millions of people with lactose intolerance. This groundbreaking innovation has shaped global markets and inspired the creation of entire lactose-free categories in many countries.
One of Valio’s biggest strengths is its commitment to scientific research. The company operates one of Europe’s most advanced dairy research and development centers, employing hundreds of food scientists, technologists, nutrition experts, and product developers. This strong focus on innovation has led to internationally patented technologies, including advanced protein separation, fat fractionation, and precision fermentation techniques. These technologies allow Valio to produce high-purity milk powders, specialized infant nutrition products, and premium ingredients used by food manufacturers worldwide.
Valio also plays a significant role in Finland’s overall food security and agricultural system. With dozens of milk collection routes and several processing facilities across the country—including major production plants in Helsinki, Seinäjoki, Lapinlahti, Joensuu, Oulu, and Jyväskylä—the company has a broad footprint that supports rural communities, local employment, and regional economic development. Each facility specializes in different product lines—for example, the Lapinlahti plant focuses heavily on cheese production, while Joensuu is a major hub for milk powders and export ingredients.
Sustainability is deeply embedded in Valio’s operations. Finland’s natural environment is one of the cleanest in the world, and Valio has worked for decades to protect it. The company has set ambitious climate goals, including achieving carbon-neutral milk by 2035. To reach this target, Valio collaborates closely with dairy farms to reduce methane emissions, promote regenerative farming practices, improve energy efficiency, and increase the use of renewable energy. Many of its farms already operate on biogas systems that recycle manure into clean energy, significantly decreasing emissions.
Valio has also made major advancements in packaging sustainability. The company uses lightweight, recyclable, and plant-based packaging materials, reducing plastic usage and minimizing carbon footprints. Additionally, the brand has invested in energy-efficient production lines, advanced waste-reduction systems, and circular-economy initiatives that convert side streams—such as whey—into high-value nutritional ingredients.
Internationally, Valio has built a strong reputation for reliability, purity, and technological excellence. Its milk powders and industrial ingredients are highly sought after by global food manufacturers, particularly in the bakery, confectionery, infant formula, and protein supplement sectors. Valio’s export business covers Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America, with specialized partnerships that ensure local availability of both retail and industrial products.
Within Finnish households, Valio has an iconic status. Products such as Valio butter, Oltermanni cheese, Valio yogurt, Valio PROfeel protein drinks, and Valio lactose-free milk are staples found in almost every Finnish kitchen. Consumers trust the brand not only for its taste and freshness but also because Valio consistently ranks at the top of national surveys for quality, reliability, and ethical business practices.
The company’s approach to employee culture is equally noteworthy. Valio employs thousands of people across production, logistics, research, quality control, sustainability, engineering, and corporate functions. It is known for offering stable career paths, competitive wages, training programs, and a strong commitment to workplace safety. Many employees stay for decades, reflecting the supportive and family-oriented environment within the company.
Looking to the future, Valio continues to invest heavily in plant-based innovations, new protein technologies, and sustainable nutrition solutions. The company is exploring hybrid dairy-plant formulations, advanced health-focused products, and new global markets while remaining committed to its cooperative roots and Finnish agricultural heritage.
In summary, Valio Ltd is much more than a dairy manufacturer—it is a global leader in nutrition science, sustainability, and food innovation. Through its dedication to quality, farmer ownership, advanced research, and environmental responsibility, Valio has shaped both Finland’s food industry and the global dairy landscape. Its products symbolize the purity of Finnish nature, the strength of cooperation, and the endless possibilities of scientific progress.
Job Information Summary
Company Name: Valio Ltd
Location: Finland (various locations including Helsinki, Seinäjoki, Lapinlahti, Joensuu, Oulu, Jyväskylä)
Available Positions: 33 diverse roles in production, maintenance, R&D, and more
Contract Type: Permanent, full-time positions
Experience Level: Opportunities for all levels, from entry-level to experienced professionals
Application Email: rekrytointi@valio.fi
Available Career Opportunities
Dairy Production Operator
Key Responsibilities:
Operate and monitor production lines for various dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, or butter.
Ensure the efficient and smooth operation of machinery, performing adjustments as needed.
Conduct in-process quality checks to ensure products meet Valio’s high standards.
Adhere strictly to hygiene, safety (HACCP), and environmental regulations.
Document production data and report any deviations or malfunctions.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification in food processing or a related field is an advantage.
Previous experience as a machine operator in the food industry is highly valued.
A strong technical aptitude and a quality-focused, precise working style.
Ability to work effectively in a team and in a shift system.
Reliable, responsible, and committed to safety.
Maintenance Technician (Mechanical)
Key Responsibilities:
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on complex dairy processing and packaging equipment.
Diagnose and repair mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems to minimize downtime.
Participate in the installation and commissioning of new machinery.
Contribute to continuous improvement projects to enhance machine reliability and efficiency.
Maintain technical documentation and spare parts inventory.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification in mechanical engineering, industrial mechanics, or a related field.
Proven experience in industrial maintenance, preferably in a food or process industry environment.
Good knowledge of welding, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
A proactive, solution-oriented, and independent approach.
Willingness to work in shifts and perform on-call duty.
Automation Technician
Key Responsibilities:
Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize our highly automated production and logistics systems.
Program and configure PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7/TIA Portal, Rockwell).
Work with SCADA systems, HMI, frequency converters, and robotics.
Participate in automation, digitalization, and Industry 4.0 projects.
Provide technical support and training to production and maintenance teams.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification or degree in automation, electrical engineering, or a related field.
Strong experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, and industrial networks.
A systematic, analytical, and innovative mindset.
Eager to work with cutting-edge technologies.
Good command of Finnish and English.
Cheese Maker
Key Responsibilities:
Oversee the entire cheese-making process, from milk reception and treatment to curd cutting, pressing, salting, and ripening.
Monitor and control critical process parameters to ensure the desired cheese quality and characteristics.
Maintain the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.
Contribute to the development of new cheese recipes and the improvement of existing ones.
Train and mentor junior cheese makers and production staff.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification as a dairy technologist or cheese maker.
Several years of hands-on experience in cheese making, preferably with different cheese types.
A deep passion for and understanding of the art and science of cheese making.
Sensory skills and a strong attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and lead by example.
Quality Control Laboratory Technician
Key Responsibilities:
Perform quality controls on raw milk, intermediate products, and finished goods.
Conduct chemical, physical, and microbiological analyses in the laboratory.
Monitor production processes to ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.
Manage quality data, document results, and report non-conformities.
Participate in internal audits and support in complaint management.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification or degree in laboratory technology, food science, or a related field.
Experience in a quality assurance or laboratory role in the food industry.
Precise, detail-oriented, and reliable working style.
Good knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., FSSC 22000) and laboratory practices.
Independent, proactive, and communicative.
Forklift Driver / Logistics Operator
Key Responsibilities:
Operate a forklift to transport raw materials, packaging, and finished goods within the factory and warehouse.
Load and unload trucks and containers safely and efficiently.
Handle the storage and retrieval of goods in our warehouses.
Use a scanner and our warehouse management system (e.g., SAP EWM) to book goods movements.
Ensure safety, order, and cleanliness in the logistics areas.
Qualifications and Skills:
A valid forklift license is mandatory.
Proven experience as a forklift driver, preferably in a manufacturing or logistics environment.
A strong commitment to safety and careful handling of goods.
Reliable, independent, and able to work in shifts.
Good command of Finnish.
Electrician / Maintenance Electrician
Key Responsibilities:
Perform electrical maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on our production machinery and building infrastructure.
Carry out electrical installations and modifications.
Perform legally required safety checks on electrical equipment.
Work on control cabinets and electrical distribution systems.
Participate in the on-call duty service.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification as an electrician or automation technician.
Experience in industrial maintenance is a strong asset.
Authorization to perform electrical work in Finland is required.
A systematic, independent, and safety-conscious working style.
Good command of Finnish.
Food Technologist / Product Developer
Key Responsibilities:
Develop new and renovate existing dairy and food products.
Create and test new recipes and processes in our R&D pilot plant.
Source, evaluate, and select new ingredients and technologies.
Work in cross-functional project teams with marketing, engineering, and production.
Organize and conduct sensory evaluations and consumer tests.
Qualifications and Skills:
A Master’s or PhD in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
Experience in product development in the food industry.
Creative, innovative, and passionate about food trends and consumer needs.
Good project management and communication skills.
Fluent in English; Finnish is a strong asset.
Process Engineer
Key Responsibilities:
Analyze and optimize our dairy production processes to improve efficiency, quality, safety, and sustainability.
Lead continuous improvement projects using methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma.
Provide technical expertise and support to the production teams.
Manage the industrialization of new products and the implementation of new technologies.
Develop and maintain process standards and documentation.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Food Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Experience in process optimization in the food or process industry.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
Communicative, influential, and able to drive change.
Fluent in English and Finnish.
Supply Chain Planner
Key Responsibilities:
Plan and manage the supply of raw materials and packaging to ensure uninterrupted production.
Create and monitor short-term and long-term production plans based on demand forecasts.
Optimize inventory levels to balance service levels and costs.
Coordinate with suppliers, production, logistics, and demand planners.
Work intensively with our ERP system (e.g., SAP).
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or Engineering.
Experience in supply or production planning in a manufacturing environment.
Strong analytical and organizational skills.
Proficiency in SAP and advanced MS Excel.
Resilient, communicative, and a strong team player.
Packaging Development Specialist
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement new and improved packaging solutions for our products.
Focus on sustainability (e.g., recyclability, plant-based materials), cost, and performance.
Conduct packaging trials in the factory and laboratory.
Work closely with R&D, marketing, procurement, and suppliers.
Ensure that packaging meets all legal and quality requirements.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Packaging Technology, Material Science, or a related field.
Experience in packaging development in the FMCG industry.
Good knowledge of different packaging materials and technologies.
Creative, proactive, and with good project management skills.
Fluent in English; Finnish is a plus.
Project Manager (Capital Investments)
Key Responsibilities:
Plan and execute technical investment projects in our factories, from concept to commissioning.
Focus on the installation of new production lines, machinery, or building infrastructure.
Manage project scope, budget, timeline, and stakeholders.
Coordinate with suppliers, contractors, and internal teams.
Ensure that projects are delivered safely, on time, and to the required quality.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Mechanical, Process, or Electrical Engineering.
Proven experience in managing technical projects in a manufacturing environment.
Strong technical, project management, and leadership skills.
A structured, hands-on, and results-oriented approach.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Manager
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the HSE function at a production site.
Develop and implement the site’s HSE strategy and programs.
Ensure compliance with all legal and corporate HSE standards.
Promote a strong safety culture through training, communication, and leadership.
Manage environmental permits and drive improvements in environmental performance.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in a technical or scientific field with further education in occupational health and safety.
Several years of experience in an HSE leadership role in a manufacturing environment.
In-depth knowledge of Finnish HSE legislation.
Strong leadership, communication, and influencing skills.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
IT Specialist (Infrastructure)
Key Responsibilities:
Manage and maintain the local IT infrastructure at a production site (servers, network, etc.).
Provide second and third-level IT support.
Participate in IT infrastructure projects.
Ensure the security and reliability of our IT systems.
Collaborate with the central IT organization.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification or degree in IT.
Experience in managing IT infrastructure (Windows Server, VMware, networking).
Good knowledge of IT security.
Service-oriented, with strong problem-solving skills.
Good command of Finnish and English.
HR Specialist (Recruitment & Employer Branding)
Key Responsibilities:
Manage the end-to-end recruitment process for various roles.
Develop and implement strategies to attract top talent.
Build and maintain our employer brand through various channels.
Collaborate with hiring managers to understand their needs.
Participate in job fairs and other recruitment events.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in HR, Business, or a related field.
Experience in recruitment and employer branding.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Proactive, creative, and results-oriented.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
Financial Controller
Key Responsibilities:
Manage the financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes for a factory or business unit.
Analyze financial performance, identify deviations, and provide insights to management.
Calculate product costs and profitability.
Participate in the monthly and annual closing.
Drive cost-saving initiatives and support investment decisions.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration.
Several years of experience in controlling, preferably in a manufacturing company.
Strong analytical skills and a good understanding of business processes.
Proficiency in SAP (CO/FI) and MS Excel.
Communicative, proactive, and able to challenge the status quo.
Procurement Manager (Raw Materials)
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the procurement of key raw materials (other than raw milk).
Develop and implement sourcing strategies.
Negotiate with international suppliers.
Manage supplier relationships and performance.
Monitor market trends and manage price risks.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field.
Several years of experience in strategic procurement in the food industry.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and leadership skills.
Experience with international sourcing.
Fluent in English.
Cleaning Operative / Sanitation Worker
Key Responsibilities:
Perform cleaning and sanitation of production areas and equipment according to strict hygiene standards.
Operate cleaning systems (e.g., CIP - Cleaning in Place).
Handle cleaning chemicals safely.
Document cleaning activities.
Contribute to maintaining a high level of hygiene and food safety in the factory.
Qualifications and Skills:
Experience in industrial cleaning, preferably in the food industry, is an advantage.
A strong understanding of hygiene and safety.
Reliable, thorough, and able to work independently.
Physical fitness.
Basic understanding of Finnish.
Production Team Leader
Key Responsibilities:
Lead, coach, and develop a team of production operators.
Organize and oversee the production activities during a shift to meet targets for safety, quality, and output.
Ensure the smooth running of the production lines and troubleshoot issues.
Drive continuous improvement within the team.
Ensure compliance with all relevant standards and procedures.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification in food processing or a technical field, with further education as a foreman or similar.
First leadership experience in a production environment.
Good organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Assertive, empathetic, and able to motivate a team.
Quality-conscious and results-oriented.
Brand Manager
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement the marketing strategy for a specific brand or product category.
Manage the brand’s P&L.
Lead innovation projects and product launches.
Plan and execute marketing campaigns across all channels.
Analyze market data and consumer insights to drive growth.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Marketing or Business Administration.
Several years of experience in brand management in the FMCG industry.
Strong strategic, analytical, and creative skills.
Excellent leadership and project management skills.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
R&D Scientist (Nutrition)
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct research on the health effects of dairy products and ingredients.
Provide scientific expertise to support product development and marketing claims.
Stay up-to-date with the latest nutrition science.
Collaborate with universities and research institutes.
Publish research findings and represent Valio at scientific conferences.
Qualifications and Skills:
A PhD in Nutrition Science or a related field.
Experience in clinical or experimental nutrition research.
Strong scientific and analytical skills.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Fluent in English.
Customer Service Coordinator
Key Responsibilities:
Act as the main point of contact for our export customers.
Process orders, coordinate shipments, and prepare export documentation.
Handle customer inquiries and complaints.
Work closely with sales, logistics, and production.
Maintain customer data in our systems.
Qualifications and Skills:
A commercial education or a degree in a relevant field.
Experience in customer service, logistics, or export.
Service-oriented, communicative, and well-organized.
Proficiency in MS Office; SAP knowledge is a plus.
Fluent in English; other languages are an asset.
Mechanical Engineer (Design)
Key Responsibilities:
Design and develop mechanical components and systems for our dairy processing equipment.
Create 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software.
Work on the improvement and optimization of existing machinery.
Collaborate with project engineers and maintenance teams.
Ensure that designs meet hygiene and safety standards.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Experience in mechanical design, preferably in the food or process equipment industry.
Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
Creative, precise, and with a good technical understanding.
Good command of Finnish and English.
Sustainability Specialist
Key Responsibilities:
Support the implementation of Valio’s sustainability strategy, with a focus on achieving carbon-neutral milk.
Collect, analyze, and report sustainability data.
Participate in projects related to climate, biodiversity, and circular economy.
Communicate about our sustainability work to internal and external stakeholders.
Engage with dairy farmers to promote sustainable farming practices.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Environmental Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
Experience in a sustainability-related role.
Strong analytical and communication skills.
Passionate about sustainability and able to inspire others.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
Payroll Administrator
Key Responsibilities:
Manage the monthly payroll process for a specific employee population.
Ensure the correct and timely payment of salaries.
Handle all payroll-related administration (e.g., social security, taxes, pensions).
Act as the expert on payroll-related questions.
Work with our HR and payroll systems.
Qualifications and Skills:
A commercial education with further training in payroll administration.
Several years of experience as a payroll administrator.
In-depth knowledge of Finnish payroll and labor law.
Precise, discreet, and reliable.
Experience with relevant software is a plus.
Internal Auditor
Key Responsibilities:
Plan and conduct internal audits of our financial and operational processes.
Assess the effectiveness of our internal control systems.
Identify risks and weaknesses and provide recommendations for improvement.
Prepare audit reports for management.
Follow up on the implementation of audit recommendations.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration.
Several years of experience in internal or external audit.
Professional certification (e.g., CIA) is a plus.
Strong analytical, communication, and interviewing skills.
Objective, independent, and with high integrity.
Warehouse Worker
Key Responsibilities:
Perform manual tasks in the warehouse, such as order picking, packing, and labeling.
Assist in the loading and unloading of trucks.
Use a scanner to record goods movements.
Ensure order and cleanliness in the warehouse.
Adhere to all safety regulations.
Qualifications and Skills:
Experience in a warehouse or logistics environment is an advantage.
Physical fitness and a hands-on mentality.
Reliable, accurate, and a team player.
Basic understanding of Finnish.
Forklift license is a plus.
Data Analyst (Sales)
Key Responsibilities:
Analyze sales data to identify trends, opportunities, and challenges.
Create reports and dashboards for the sales and marketing teams.
Support in sales forecasting and planning.
Work with large datasets from various sources.
Translate data into actionable insights.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in a quantitative field like Business, Economics, or Statistics.
Experience as a data analyst.
Strong analytical skills and proficiency in tools like Excel, Power BI, or Tableau.
Good understanding of business and sales processes.
Communicative and able to present data in a clear and compelling way.
Legal Counsel
Key Responsibilities:
Provide legal advice and support to the business on a wide range of topics (e.g., commercial law, contract law, food law, competition law).
Draft and review contracts.
Manage litigation and disputes.
Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Monitor legal developments.
Qualifications and Skills:
A Master’s degree in Finnish Law.
Several years of experience as a legal counsel in a company or a law firm.
Broad legal knowledge and a pragmatic, business-oriented approach.
Strong communication and negotiation skills.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
Farm Advisor
Key Responsibilities:
Act as the main point of contact for our owner-farmers.
Provide advice and support on topics such as milk quality, animal welfare, and sustainable farming practices.
Organize training and events for farmers.
Collect data from farms.
Help to strengthen the relationship between Valio and its owners.
Qualifications and Skills:
A degree in Agriculture or a related field.
Good knowledge of dairy farming.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Service-oriented and able to build trust.
Good command of Finnish.
Administrative Assistant
Key Responsibilities:
Provide administrative support to a department or a manager.
Organize meetings and travel.
Prepare presentations and reports.
Handle correspondence.
Manage agendas and perform general office tasks.
Qualifications and Skills:
A commercial education.
Experience as an administrative assistant.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Service-oriented, discreet, and reliable.
Fluent in Finnish and English.
Buttermaker
Key Responsibilities:
Operate and control the butter-making process, from cream pasteurization and churning to packaging.
Monitor product quality and make adjustments to ensure the desired texture, taste, and composition.
Maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety.
Contribute to process improvement and product development.
Troubleshoot operational issues.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification as a dairy technologist or food processor.
Experience in butter making or a similar dairy process.
A good technical understanding and a hands-on approach.
Quality-conscious and reliable.
Ability to work in a team and in shifts.
Milk Powder Plant Operator
Key Responsibilities:
Operate and monitor the entire milk powder production process, including evaporation and spray drying.
Control critical process parameters to ensure the powder meets strict quality specifications.
Perform in-process quality checks.
Ensure the cleaning and sanitation of the plant.
Adhere to all safety and environmental regulations.
Qualifications and Skills:
A vocational qualification in food or process technology.
Experience in operating a spray dryer or a similar large-scale process plant is a strong asset.
A good technical understanding and problem-solving skills.
Responsible, quality-conscious, and able to work independently.
Willingness to work in a continuous shift system.
How to Apply
If you are ready to build a rewarding career with a global leader and contribute to a healthier future, we invite you to apply. Please send your complete application, including your CV and a cover letter specifying the role you are interested in, to:
rekrytointi@valio.fi
Valio is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We look forward to receiving your application and discovering how your skills and passion can make a difference at Valio.
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