Position Summary:

This role requires an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to oversee our 2nd shift manufacturing operations. The Operations Manager will manage three critical production departments-Grind Mix Blend, HPP (High Pressure Processing), and Forming-to ensure efficient, high-quality, and safe production processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing operations, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

Oversee and manage all aspects of 2nd shift operations across the three manufacturing departments: Grind Mix Blend, HPP, and Forming

Develop and implement shift-specific production plans to meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets

Ensure production schedules are adhered to and troubleshoot any issues that may impact operations

Team Management:

Supervise, train, and develop department supervisors and production teams

Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching to maximize team productivity and engagement

Quality and Safety:

Ensure compliance with all quality control standards and regulatory requirements.

Enforce strict safety protocols and actively promote a culture of safety across all manufacturing processes

Lead incident investigations and implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences

Process Improvement:

Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and quality enhancement

Implement lean manufacturing practices and continuous improvement initiatives

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and operational efficiency

Communication and Reporting:

Maintain clear communication with the Plant Manager and other leadership regarding shift performance, challenges, and opportunities

Prepare and present regular reports on production metrics, quality indicators, and safety performance

Serve as the primary point of contact for 2nd shift operational issues

Personal Attributes:

High Values: integrity (do the right thing), encourager, courteous, respectful and trustworthy

Team player: work effectively across levels and departments, cover responsibilities of others, and work holidays/weekends/overnights as needed

Highly driven: self-motivated, work with urgency, assertive and drive action

Organized with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple things at once

Effective verbal and written communicator

Ability to deal with ambiguity and limited information

Ability to remain calm in stressful and conflict situations

Able to challenge the status quo, identify opportunities (process, data) and come up with creative solutions

Champion and embrace change

Skills and Technical Expertise:

Highly developed project management skills

Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to motivate and manage diverse teams

Familiar with High Pressure Processing (HPP) and related food safety standards

Basic understanding of accounting and financial statements

Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Microsoft Project, spreadsheets, Outlook

Technical knowledge of process, equipment, controls and products

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of team building

Driving Continuous Improvement: Lean Manufacturing, Six sigma, or similar methodologies a plus.

Food safety and quality knowledge (Knowing what you can do to assure safe, high-quality food)

Comprehensive knowledge of Food and Drug laws, OSHA requirements