Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Production Manager

Position Summary

Uncle Ray’s is seeking an experienced and motivated Production Manager to oversee daily manufacturing operations within our potato chip production facility. This role is responsible for leading production teams, driving operational efficiency, ensuring food safety and quality compliance, and maintaining a safe work environment.

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in food manufacturing, and a solid understanding of SQF, HACCP, GMPs, and OSHA requirements. This position works closely with Production Planning, Maintenance, Shipping, Sanitation, and Quality Assurance to ensure production goals and customer expectations are consistently met.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support Production Supervisors and Leads to achieve production, quality, and safety goals
• Coordinate daily production schedules to meet operational requirements and customer demand
• Monitor production performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and control costs
• Ensure compliance with SQF, HACCP, GMP, food safety, allergen control, and OSHA standards
• Participate as a member of the HACCP and SQF leadership teams
• Investigate and address food safety or quality concerns promptly
• Establish and manage departmental KPIs and performance expectations
• Coach, train, and develop production employees and supervisors
• Manage staffing schedules, overtime, vacations, and temporary labor requirements
• Promote a positive, professional, and safety-focused workplace culture
• Communicate effectively across departments regarding production updates, maintenance needs, and compliance matters
• Oversee environmental monitoring activities including water quality and wastewater testing
• Ensure calibration and certification of scales, metal detectors, and backflow preventers
• Coordinate with external vendors and contractors for facility-related services including HVAC, utilities, plumbing, pest control, uniforms, and waste management
• Attend and participate in safety committee meetings

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and related manufacturing experience
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in a manufacturing or food production environment
• Strong understanding of food safety systems including SQF, HACCP, and GMPs
• Proven leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to motivate teams and work effectively with employees at all levels
• Experience managing labor scheduling, production planning, and operational costs
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Strong organizational skills and ability to make timely decisions in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Uncle Ray’s is a potato chip and snack manufacturing company founded in 1965, built on the belief that good chips should be made by everyday people, for everyday people. With facilities in Detroit, MI and Montgomery City, MO, we’re proud of our strong, family-like culture and long-tenured team. We value relationships, personal growth, and giving back—continuing the legacy of our founder, Ray Jenkins, by making a difference one chip at a time.

Company Description

Uncle Ray’s is a potato chip and snack manufacturing company founded in 1965, built on the belief that good chips should be made by everyday people, for everyday people. With facilities in Detroit, MI and Montgomery City, MO, we’re proud of our strong, family-like culture and long-tenured team. We value relationships, personal growth, and giving back—continuing the legacy of our founder, Ray Jenkins, by making a difference one chip at a time.