Production Manager

Position Overview As the Production Manager, you will oversee the daily manufacturing operations of our aseptic UHT milk plant. You will be responsible for driving safety, production efficiency, ensuring strict compliance with food safety regulations (FDA, USDA, SQF), managing a skilled team of supervisors and operators, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has technical expertise in aseptic processing and automated packaging systems. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership & Efficiency Direct and manage all daily production activities across batching, UHT sterilization, and aseptic filling/packaging lines. Work with supervisors to optimize production schedules, labor allocation, and equipment utilization to meet demand while minimizing downtime and waste. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) including throughput, production time utilization, yield, etc. Food Safety, Quality & Compliance Ensure 100% compliance with FDA, USDA, OSHA, and SQF requirements. Partner closely with the Quality Assurance team to maintain first-pass release rates by proactively identifying and resolving preventable quality issues. Lead root‑cause analysis and corrective actions for any process deviations or sterility failures. Team Development & Culture Provide leadership, coaching, and mentorship to supervisors, processing technicians, and packaging operators. Foster a proactive safety culture, ensuring all team members adhere to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Monitor and enforce SOP compliance alongside area supervisors. Identify training gaps and implement robust development programs for aseptic technology and equipment operation. Continuous Improvement & Maintenance Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, optimize chemical/water usage, and streamline changeovers. Collaborate with the Engineering and Maintenance teams on preventive maintenance schedules and Capital Expenditure projects. Qualifications & Experience Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; degree in Food Science, Engineering & Technology, Business Management or a related technical field preferred. Experience: Production management experience is required, preferably in a food or beverage manufacturing plant. Has shown a history of success in increasing throughput while reducing costs and waste as well as been able to take on increasing responsibilities. Technical Skills: Understanding of UHT processing, CIP/SIP systems, PLC‑controlled automation, and high‑speed packaging is preferred. Leadership: Strong communication, conflict‑resolution, and change‑management skills with a proven track record of developing high‑performing teams. Benefits Free medical insurance option available to employees! Health, Dental, and Vision offered with HSA match up to $1,000 Paid time off Holiday pay incentives Weekend pay +$2.50/hr 401k with Company contributions. Quarterly bonuses to reward your hard work. Onsite cafeteria to keep you fueled and energized. Gossner Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We hire without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr