Operations Manager - Aseptic

You will manage operating departments and staff within the plant, overseeing areas such as milk receiving, warehouse/cooler, processing, filling, packaging, and/or retort departments. You'll provide direction and supervision to supervisors and employees, ensuring they follow standard work rules, union contract provisions, and employment policies.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage daily activities of supervisors and staff to ensure orders are received, scheduled, produced, and shipped safely, cost-effectively, and in line with customer requirements, service agreements, and established safety and quality standards.
• Monitor ongoing plant operations, report deficiencies to leadership, and address operational issues. You'll also evaluate current procedures and implement improvements where necessary.
• Ensure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed, maintained, and followed for all operational activities.
• Develop and update plant processes and assist in the creation of safety programs.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations and company policies, making sure that they are understood and followed by supervisors and production employees. Provide guidance on correct interpretation as needed.
• Conduct meetings with department management to communicate key policies, plans, or challenges impacting operations and employee relations.
• Prepare the plant for inspections by USPH, USDA, and other regulatory agencies, coordinating with appropriate staff.
• Monitor inventory levels for supplies and equipment, initiating purchases when necessary.
• Prepare reports and records for management review and keep track of operational metrics.
• Evaluate teamwork, cohesiveness, and quality awareness among supervisors and employees.
• Manage employees through recruitment, scheduling, development, and performance management, applying work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and company employment policies consistently.
• Maintain positive employee relations, actively engaging with employees through meetings and informal communication methods.
• Ensure safe working conditions and compliance with all company, state, and federal health and safety regulations.
• Follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) and ensure alignment with company standards regarding food safety, quality, and sanitation.

Requirements:

• Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; undergraduate degree preferred.
  • 5 to 8 years' experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Dairy experience is required, along with aseptic or UHT experience.
  • Supervisory or management experience in a food/beverage manufacturing setting is essential.

• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and continuous improvement models.
  • Leadership and coaching skills, with a background in supervision, training, and personnel management.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and company systems.
  • Critical thinking, analysis, and statistical evaluation skills.
  • Ability to foster teamwork, interact positively with others, and handle conflict situations tactfully.
  • Strong communication skills for interacting with different levels of personnel to meet customer requirements.
  • Adaptability to changing processes, policies, and challenges.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English.