Plant Manager

Plant Manager

At Harvest Food Group (HFG), our mission is to create products that make a positive impact on the world. HFG is a private equity–backed company headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, with a brand-new, state-of-the-art production facility in East Chicago, Indiana. Please note, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future. Additionally, there is no relocation assistance.

The Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing daily operations in a high-volume food manufacturing facility specializing in frozen ingredients. This role ensures efficient production while maintaining safety, quality, cost, and efficiency standards. The Production Manager leads a team of supervisors and production staff to drive continuous improvement, automation integration, and operational excellence in alignment with company goals. This role reports directly to the VP of Operations and serves as a key leader in executing company-wide operational strategy, driving plant performance, and contributing to long-term growth initiatives.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Operations Leadership
• Food Safety, Quality & Compliance
• Team Leadership & Development
• Safety & Environmental
• Performance & Continuous Improvement
• Financial Performance

Requirements:

Skills/Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in food science, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field/experience.

5+ years of production management experience in a food manufacturing environment, preferably in frozen food.

Experience managing high-volume, automated food production lines.

Demonstrated experience in leading teams, improving efficiency, and implementing process improvements.

Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred; ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing with English- and Spanish-speaking employees, customers, and/or vendors.

Strong knowledge of IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) food processing and packaging.

Must have Vertical Form Fill and Seal knowledge, horizontal bagging, and other packaging systems knowledge.

Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and/or TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) preferred.

Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on continuous improvement.

Proficient in ERP/MRP systems, production scheduling software, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Knowledge of regulatory compliance, food safety programs, and OSHA safety standards.

Benefits:

Comprehensive Benefits Package including: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA/HSA, Life and AD&D insurance, Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability, Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance, 401(k) matching, Accident Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays.