Sanitation Lead

Sanitation Lead

The Sanitation Lead is responsible for overseeing daily sanitation operations within a food manufacturing environment. This role ensures all facility, equipment, and machinery cleaning activities meet regulatory requirements and internal food safety standards. The Sanitation Lead supports the Sanitation Supervisor by coordinating schedules, directing staff, and helping implement sanitation procedures that maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and assign daily tasks to sanitation technicians to ensure timely and effective cleaning.
• Enforce Lockout/Tagout, GMPs, food safety policies, and proper chemical handling procedures.
• Train sanitation team members on SOPs, GMPs, safety practices, and documentation requirements.
• Conduct routine sanitation audits and take corrective action when standards are not met.
• Collaborate with Production, Warehouse, Maintenance, and Quality teams to coordinate cleaning schedules and priorities.
• Assist in developing and implementing sanitation procedures, testing plans, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform hands-on sanitation work, including equipment disassembly/reassembly, cleaning, sanitizing, and inspections.
• Maintain sanitation supplies, chemical controls, tool checklists, and Master Sanitation Schedule documentation.
• Monitor crew performance to ensure all cleaning meets established SOPs.
• Safely apply industrial cleaners and sanitizers.
• Maintain forklift certification (as required).
• Generate work orders and assist with preventative maintenance of sanitation and analytical equipment.
• Communicate issues, concerns, and improvement opportunities to leadership.
• Maintain accurate records and uphold confidentiality related to company operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a food manufacturing environment (sanitation experience preferred).
• At least 3 years of supervisory or leadership experience in manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of GMPs and food safety standards.
• Proven leadership, reliability, and attendance.
• Comfortable using computers, including Windows, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work professionally with all levels of plant personnel.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequent bending, reaching, kneeling, and lifting.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and push/pull up to 75 lbs occasionally.
• Work involves exposure to chemicals and operating near moving machinery.
• Use of PPE is required.