1st Shift Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Essential Functions and Role:

This is an entry-level "hands-on" Operations Manager role. Meeting USDA, HACCP, GMPF, and Company standards, and under the supervision of the Assistant/Plant Manager, the functions of this role are to:

• Manage associate safety, production, quality, yields, efficiencies, attendance, payroll, hiring, discipline, work rules, USDA procedures, training, paperwork, communication, and product safety.
• Lead the team by identifying goals for the department and aligning them with the overall goals and direction of Michigan Turkey Producers.
• Build, coach, and lead a high-performing team that works together to accomplish objectives and overcome challenges, while supporting and reflecting MTP’s core values.
• Drive a culture of accountability and ownership by reinforcing expectations and following up on results.
• Implement and sustain continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance engagement.
• Monitor and respond to real-time performance data (yields, BPM, downtime, efficiencies and pounds per man hour - PPMH) and escalate concerns proactively.
• Ensure proper shift handoff communication to maintain continuity and prevent disruption to production, safety, or quality standards.
• Support preventative maintenance by coordinating with the Maintenance team and helping to identify recurring equipment issues.
• Ensure that all associates understand and follow company policy and safety procedures.
• Provide proper onboarding and ongoing training to associates.
• Follow up daily to ensure equipment and employee performance meets expectations.
• Maintain efficiencies at or above standard.
• Meet daily production schedules and staffing requirements.
• Maintain the annual budget and assist with cost-control initiatives.
• Maintain and organize accurate records of production, downtime, payroll, and other key data.
• Manage standard operating procedures and ensure adherence.
• Ensure product quality and food safety through proper NPIS/HACCP execution.
• Supervise associates and promote a respectful, safe work environment.
• Conduct regular associate meetings and daily floor communication.
• Partner with QA, Food Safety, Human Resources, and USDA to ensure compliance and resolve issues timely.
• Operate under OSHA & MIOSHA safety standards and rules, including proper PPE usage and LOTO practices.
• Support product trials, equipment evaluations, and process changes, providing feedback on performance, labor, and product impact.
• Utilize system tools and data collection software to track performance, identify trends, and support decision-making.
• Lead by example, promote MTP values, and foster a positive and communicative work culture.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

• Must be able and follow all the rules and procedures established by the HACCP program.
• Must have good attention to detail.
• Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand the English language.
• Must be able to work safely.
• Must be able to work in a team environment.
• Must be able to manage the designated number of associates within the assigned area.
• Must be able to have a good working relationship with hourly workers, USDA and Management members.
• Must be knowledgeable in the processes of the assigned area.
• Proven ability to think strategically and apply creativity to achieve practical solutions
• Proficient communicator both written and orally.
• Proficient computer skills utilizing Microsoft programs including Excel.
• Must be able to and must wear necessary Personal Protective Equipment required while performing role:

• Protective Eye Wear
• Ear plugs
• Hard Hat
• Hair Net
• Protective Coat (clothing protector)
• Forearm protection
• Plastics gloves
• Cotton gloves
• Plastic aprons

Physical Qualifications:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a manager to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to physically perform the essential functions of the role as outlined.
• Must be able to obtain a powered industrial truck (PIT) permit.
• Must be able to manually operate a knife.
• Must be able to manually operate and have familiarity of automative equipment.
• Must be able to operate and use office machines and equipment.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Repetitive use of fingers, hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders daily.
• Must be able to sit, bend, reach, and stand for 8 hours or the duration of the shift, in a wet, cold environment.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. from the floor or pull up to 50 lbs. using proper lifting techniques.