Production Manager
Position Summary
The Production Manager is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations and ensuring the efficient execution of production schedules while meeting safety, quality, and cost objectives. This role drives continuous improvement initiatives, supports the maintenance and performance of production equipment, and ensures compliance with safety, environmental, and food safety standards.
The Production Manager leads production personnel, coordinates workflow across departments, optimizes manufacturing processes, and identifies opportunities to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
Key Responsibilities
Production Operations
- Oversee day-to-day production operations to ensure products are manufactured and shipped on time and meet customer specifications.
- Execute production schedules while optimizing labor, equipment, and resource utilization.
- Maintain close oversight of manufacturing operations through reports, meetings, and direct observation.
- Ensure coordination and integration of workflow across departments.
Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization
- Evaluate manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for cost reduction, quality improvement, and operational efficiency.
- Develop and implement programs to improve manufacturing productivity and reduce operating costs.
- Review and update work procedures to ensure maximum efficiency and product quality.
- Provide leadership for Continuous Improvement initiatives.
Equipment & Facility Management
- Support maintenance and performance of production equipment to ensure optimal operation.
- Participate in planning and implementation of capital equipment installations, major repairs, and facility upgrades.
- Submit and coordinate plant layout changes when necessary.
- Maintain oversight of open projects and track completion schedules with monthly updates.
Safety, Compliance & Environmental Responsibility
- Develop and implement workplace safety programs and ensure compliance with OSHA regulations.
- Ensure adherence to company safety policies, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and food safety standards in accordance with FSSC 22000.
- Maintain awareness of health, safety, and environmental regulations impacting operations.
- Ensure proper accident reporting and investigation procedures are followed.
- Promote good housekeeping and safe work practices throughout the facility.
Financial & Operational Performance
- Monitor and control the relationship between direct labor costs and production pricing.
- Ensure manufacturing activities align with budgetary requirements and operational targets.
- Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives.
Leadership & Personnel Management
- Provide leadership, guidance, and performance management for production supervisors and team members.
- Conduct performance evaluations for direct reports.
- Train, mentor, and develop employees to improve skills and performance.
- Participate in employee relations matters, including disciplinary actions when required.
- Collaborate with Human Resources to maintain accurate job descriptions and support compensation studies.
Organizational Effectiveness
- Continually evaluate the effectiveness of the factory organization structure and recommend improvements.
- Support a positive work environment through strong communication and sound judgment when addressing operational challenges.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; Cheese or Dairy related degree preferred
- 5+ years of management experience in a manufacturing environment
- Strong knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- PCQI and HACCP Preferred
- Experience with continuous improvement and operational efficiency programs
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Skills & Competencies
- Strong leadership and team management abilities
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
- Ability to analyze production data and drive process improvements
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Ability to develop and deliver presentations
- Sound judgment and problem-solving capabilities
- Commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance
Join Our Team
559.736.0101
Compensation / Pay Rate (Up to): $110,000.00 - $125,000.00 Per Year
