Production Manager - 3rd Shift

Location: Swedesboro, NJSchedule: 3rd Shift | 10:00 PM - 6:30 AMCompensation: $95,000-$110,000 base + 15% bonusReports to: Senior Operations ManagerEnvironment: Non-union | 24/7 operationRole OverviewThis is a newly added leadership role driven by business growth and increased production demand, not backfill, making it a strong long-term opportunity for someone looking to step into a visible, high-impact operations leadership position.

This leader will own all 3rd-shift production operations for multiple lines, with full accountability for safety, quality, throughput, and people leadership. The role requires a strong on-the-floor presence and the ability to lead through supervisors in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesLead and oversee all 3rd-shift production operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and consistent execution of production plansDirectly manage 5 Production Supervisors, with each supervisor leading 15-20 hourly associates, technicians, operators, and general labor employeesServe as the primary authority on shift, making real-time decisions to resolve production, staffing, and operational issuesDrive compliance with GMPs, food safety, quality standards, and company procedures across multiple production linesMonitor production performance, labor utilization, and line efficiency using data and strong analytical judgmentPartner closely with cross-functional teams including Quality, Maintenance, Planning, and Senior Operations leadershipCommunicate shift performance, risks, and improvement opportunities clearly to senior leadershipSupport continuous improvement initiatives and help scale operations as the facility continues to growSchedule & Flexibility3rd shift: 10:00 PM - 6:30 AMWeekend availability required (typically one weekend day per week)Schedules will be either Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday-ThursdayMust be comfortable supporting a 24/7 manufacturing operation and stepping in as needed for shift coverageBackground & Experience Profile7-10+ years of experience in food manufacturing (or closely related regulated manufacturing environments)3-5+ years of people leadership experience, including leading supervisors and large hourly teamsDemonstrated experience managing multiple production linesStrong leadership presence with the ability to set expectations, hold teams accountable, and lead with authorityComfortable operating through others rather than being an individual contributorStrong communicator with the ability to influence across levels and functionsSAP experience is a plusBilingual English/Spanish is a plus, not requiredDegree is not critical; proven leadership experience is far more important than title or educationBaked goods experience is a plusWhat They're Really Looking ForSomeone with true management experience, not just a lead or senior operator titleA leader who is confident being the decision-maker on shiftEqual strength in technical understanding and people leadershipA hands-on leader who values floor presence and visibility with teamsWhy This Role Is AttractiveGrowth-driven opening tied to expansion and scaling of the operationClear runway for advancement - continue to promote internally and build out leadership benchHigh visibility role reporting directly into senior operations leadershipStable, non-union environment with strong process orientationPotential flexibility for a small sign-on or relocation assistance for the right candidate