Operations Manager

ALAMANCE FOODS INC•Burlington, NC

About The Position

The Operations Manager oversees production, maintenance, quality, and supply chain activities within an aerosol food manufacturing facility. The role ensures products are manufactured safely and efficiently in compliance with food safety, regulatory, and environmental standards. It drives continuous improvement in productivity, cost, quality, and employee engagement, with a focus on safety and operational excellence. The position supervises manufacturing operations on the second shift, from 3 PM to 11 PM, and includes occasional local travel between Alamance Foods facilities for training, cross-site support, or company meetings. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required for travel between sites as needed.

Requirements

At least 7 years of experience in food or beverage manufacturing.
Proven leadership experience managing plant operations or production teams.
Strong understanding of food safety regulations, aerosol propellant handling, and can-filling technology.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Excellent communication and leadership skills.
Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems, such as SAP or Oracle, and the MS Office Suite.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement tools.
Mechanical aptitude and understanding of aerosol production equipment.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel between sites as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
At least 3 years of experience in aerosol, spray, or liquid filling operations.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and oversee shift manufacturing operations to achieve production targets.
Ensure optimal utilization of manpower, materials, and equipment.
Implement production schedules and adjust workflows to meet changing demands.
Oversee aerosol filling, packaging, and blending processes to ensure consistency and quality.
Maintain compliance with FDA, USDA, HACCP, and GMP requirements for food-grade aerosol production.
Collaborate with Quality Assurance to implement food safety programs and conduct internal audits.
Ensure operations meet environmental, health, and safety regulations, including OSHA and EPA requirements.
Promote a zero-incident culture through training and proactive risk management.
Lead initiatives to improve yield, reduce waste, and increase overall efficiency.
Use lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to optimize processes.
Identify and implement automation or process-control improvements in aerosol filling lines.
Drive cost-reduction projects without compromising quality or safety.
Supervise and mentor production supervisors, production leads, and support staff.
Foster accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Develop workforce capability through training and performance management.
Collaborate with procurement, logistics, and planning teams to ensure raw material availability.
Monitor inventory levels and coordinate replenishment with supply chain teams.
Oversee preventive maintenance programs for blending tanks, aerosol filling lines, compressors, and packaging systems.
Track production efficiency and OEE, safety performance and incident rate, quality compliance and customer complaint rate, cost per unit and waste reduction, and on-time delivery and schedule adherence.