Line Leader

Packaging Line Leader / West Room ForepersonThis role leads and coordinates daily operations of assigned packaging lines and work centers within a manufacturing environment. The position focuses on ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production by overseeing equipment setup and changeovers, directing packaging personnel, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining compliance with safety and food quality standards. The Packaging Line Leader / West Room Foreperson serves as the primary leadership resource on the production floor, providing technical guidance, training, and support to operators while driving continuous improvement across packaging operations.Responsibilities:Lead and coordinate day-to-day operations of assigned packaging lines and work centers to ensure safe and efficient production.Assign, direct, and monitor production personnel to meet safety, quality, and throughput goals.Oversee equipment setup, operation, adjustments, and changeovers to maximize production efficiency and minimize downtime.Perform and supervise machine setup, bottle size changes, line changeovers, startup activities, and line preparation before production runs.Troubleshoot production and equipment issues, investigate root causes of downtime, and implement corrective actions to maintain schedules.Monitor packaging line quality standards, product quality, waste levels, and production efficiency, and recommend process improvements to maximize throughput.Support and assist maintenance personnel during repairs, equipment adjustments, and preventative maintenance activities.Train, mentor, and develop line operators and packaging personnel on equipment operation, safety procedures, quality standards, and standard work center processes.Promote waste reduction, increased efficiency, and continuous improvement throughout packaging operations.Maintain clear communication between departments, shifts, supervisors, and operations personnel to ensure smooth workflow and coordination.Act as the primary point of contact for operators and serve as a leadership resource on the production floor.Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, lockout/tagout procedures, food safety standards, SQF requirements, and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).Complete and maintain accurate production documentation, operational checks, quality records, and performance reporting.Prioritize multiple tasks and effectively coordinate the work of others to meet production schedules and operational targets.Essential Skills:High School Diploma or GED required.Ability to qualify as a Room Foreperson within 90 days.Must meet required Work Keys testing standards.If not already qualified as a Line Operator, must pass the company Line Operator written exam within 30 days.Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise, coach, and develop employees.Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and understanding of production equipment systems.Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills for resolving equipment and production issues.Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and coordinate the work of others in a fast-paced environment.Effective written and verbal communication skills for interacting with cross-functional teams and documenting production activities.Strong organizational and time management skills.Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations relevant to production and quality checks.Understanding of machine setup, machine adjustment, and operational controls.Ability to train others on equipment operation, safety procedures, and quality standards.Commitment to maintaining safety, food quality, and regulatory compliance, including OSHA, lockout/tagout, SQF, GMP, and cGMP.Additional Skills & Qualifications:Supervisory experience in a manufacturing or packaging environment is highly beneficial.Experience coordinating packaging line changeovers and startup activities.Familiarity with troubleshooting packaging machinery and supporting preventative maintenance activities.Knowledge of continuous improvement practices focused on waste reduction and efficiency gains.Experience working with food manufacturing standards, including SQF and GMP, is an advantage.Strong coaching and mentoring mindset to support employee growth and development.Mechanical aptitude with the ability to assist mechanics during equipment repairs and adjustments.Why Work Here?This is a direct placement opportunity with strong long-term stability and growth potential. Employees receive on-site, role-specific training, including how to use tooling and operate, set up, and adjust equipment and machinery, supporting both skill development and career progression. The workplace offers union representation and benefits, providing structured support and protections. Team members enjoy unique perks such as access to a dedicated spice room where, once a month, they can fill a grocery bag with spices for a low, fixed cost. After one year of service, employees automatically receive a pay increase, reinforcing the organization's commitment to rewarding tenure and performance.Work Environment:The role is based in a manufacturing plant environment that operates Monday through Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The work involves being around moving mechanical parts, motorized vehicles, and airborne particles from spices. There is a strong spice aroma throughout and around the facility, which employees typically stop noticing after about a week of working on site. The position requires regular presence on the production floor near packaging lines and equipment, with close interaction with operators, mechanics, and other operations personnel. Appropriate attire and personal protective equipment are expected to ensure safety while working around machinery and in areas with food-grade materials.Job Type & Location:This is a Permanent position based out of Ankeny, IA.Pay and Benefits:The pay range for this position is $62608.00 - $62608.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Please see Trevor Johnson for a full list of benefits.Workplace Type:This is a fully onsite position in Ankeny, IA.Application Deadline:This position is anticipated to close on Oct 2, 2026.