Production Manager

Production Manager

We are seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations within a high-volume dairy processing facility. This role is responsible for overseeing production, packaging, sanitation, and workforce performance while ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership skills, a continuous improvement mindset, and experience managing teams in a fast-paced food or dairy manufacturing environment.

Operations Leadership Direct daily production activities across processing, filling, packaging, and support functions. Execute production schedules to meet customer demand, inventory targets, and operational objectives. Monitor production performance and drive improvements in throughput, labor utilization, yields, and downtime reduction. Coordinate closely with Maintenance, Quality, Warehousing, and Supply Chain teams to maximize plant performance. Ensure efficient staffing levels and proper allocation of personnel across shifts.

Food Safety & Quality Maintain compliance with all food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. Support and enforce adherence to GMPs, HACCP, SQF, sanitation procedures, and company policies. Partner with Quality Assurance to investigate product quality concerns and implement corrective actions. Promote a food safety culture that prioritizes product integrity and customer satisfaction.

Team Development Lead, coach, and develop supervisors and hourly production employees. Establish clear performance expectations and accountability measures. Identify training opportunities and support employee growth and succession planning. Foster a positive, collaborative workplace focused on safety, engagement, and continuous improvement.

Continuous Improvement Analyze production data and key performance indicators to identify improvement opportunities. Lead initiatives focused on waste reduction, efficiency gains, labor optimization, and process standardization. Utilize Lean Manufacturing, Root Cause Analysis, and other operational excellence methodologies. Drive sustainable improvements in OEE, productivity, quality, and cost performance.

Safety & Compliance Champion a safety-first culture throughout the facility. Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and all company safety standards. Conduct investigations related to workplace incidents, implement corrective actions, and reduce overall risk exposure. Monitor compliance with PPE requirements and safe work practices.

Qualifications Required High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor's degree preferred. 5+ years of leadership experience within food or beverage manufacturing. Demonstrated success managing production teams in a 24/7 manufacturing environment. Knowledge of food safety systems, sanitation practices, and regulatory compliance. Experience with manufacturing KPIs, workforce management, and production planning. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Bachelor's degree in Dairy Science, Food Science, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline. Dairy processing experience strongly preferred. Experience with ERP systems such as SAP or similar manufacturing software. Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement training/certifications.