OPERATIONS MANAGER

Operations ManagerPuyallup Chocolates is seeking a skilled Operations Manager to join our team. This position will play a vital role in helping to develop the processes and procedures to help expand our business.The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily production and operational activities within the Puyallup Chocolates facility. This role ensures that manufacturing runs efficiently, safely, and in compliance with food safety and quality standards. The Operations Manager will lead teams across production, maintenance, and warehouse functions while driving continuous improvement in cost, quality, and delivery.We are seeking employees who want to make an impact and be part of a rapidly growing company. Initiative and motivation are essential for our positions. This is a great opportunity to grow your career at a dynamic company, where you will be foundational in growing both our business and great company culture.Responsibilities:Direct and manage daily plant operations, including production scheduling, quality control, sanitation, and maintenanceEnsure compliance with all food safety regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP, SQF/BRC, and company policiesMonitor KPIs (yield, efficiency, downtime, waste, and labor utilization) and implement corrective actions where neededManage budgets for labor, materials, and overhead, driving cost savings initiativesOversee staffing, training, and performance management of production and operations teamsDevelop and maintain SOPs, ensuring consistent execution across all operational areasPartner with Supply Chain, Quality, and R&D teams to meet production goals and new product launchesOversee preventive maintenance programs for all production equipment; coordinate equipment repairs to minimize downtimePlan for equipment upgrades and capital investmentDevelop and enforce workplace safety policies and procedures to ensure OSHA complianceCollaborate with QA to ensure facility readiness for regulatory, third-party, and customer auditsIdentify opportunities for improvements, identify potential areas of risk, and promptly share critical business information with key stakeholders to maximize results throughout Puyallup ChocolatesEstablish and maintain effective business relationships with all employees, vendors, business partners, government/regulatory entities, and communities in which we operateStrictly enforce workplace safety measures; safeguard the welfare of all employees, guests, visitors, and business partners at all times; promptly report workplace risks, incidents, injuries, and near misses; consistently wear and utilize all required PPEMaintain confidentiality regarding all sensitive and proprietary business information and safeguard Puyallup Chocolates assets at all timesRequirements:Minimum:BA/BS degree in related field5+ years of operations or plant management experience in food or beverage manufacturingStrong knowledge of food safety programs (HACCP, SQF, BRC, FSMA, OSHA)Proven leadership and team management skills in a manufacturing environment.Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and MS Office SuiteSelf-driven and ability to work effectively with minimal supervisionAbility to make wise decisions using effectual mix of analysis, experience, and judgment.Strong data analysis skills with ability to translate complex data into sound business decisionsAbility to problem solve, multi-task, and manage competing priorities to meet deadlinesStrong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills in English, with focus on cross-functional collaborative teamsNo food-related allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, sesame, and/or soy productsCulturally sensitive and works well with the full diversity of our company and communityAbility to work non-standard hours to accommodate business needs, including nights, weekends, and holidaysUncompromising integrity and the ability to maintain strict confidentialityAbility to pass background checkPreferred:Any related industry certifications / credentialsLean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certificationExperience with chocolate productionExperience working with Tribal and/or GovernmentWork experience in a dynamic, fast paced and growing CPG companyExperience with MSDBCThe Puyallup Tribe of Indians, known as the generous and welcoming people, inspires the name and purpose of Puyallup Chocolates. Founded in the Tribe's legacy of abundance and community, we craft premium chocolates for you to enjoy and share. Each piece of Puyallup Chocolates reflects tradition, inviting you to savor life's moments and carry forward the spirit of generosity. We raise our hands in gratitude and welcome you to the Puyallup Chocolates family. Tribal and Indian preference employer as required by law.