Operations Manager

Cascade Coffee • Everett, WA

52d • $105,000 - $125,000 • Onsite

About The Position

What does it take to create 1.7 BILLION cups of coffee a year? Ask Cascade Coffee ! For more than 45 years Cascade Coffee has been the premier specialty coffee contract manufacturer in the Pacific Northwest. Specializing in roasting, grinding, flavoring, and packaging coffee, catering to the world’s finest coffee brands worldwide. Cascade works behind the scenes to provide innovation, world-class coffee roasting, and a wide variety of packaging options to highlight their loyal customer’s brands. Founded in 1977, the company operates from a 175,000 square foot manufacturing and roasting facility, more than 2 million pounds of green coffee storage facility, over 50 million pounds annually of coffee roasting capacity as well as multiple roasting lines, flavor mixing systems and 14 automated packaging lines. The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of Single Serve manufacturing, encompassing K-cups, Frac-Packs and small format retail products. This position is critical to ensuring operational efficiency, product quality, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards. It also includes responsibility for maintaining a quarterly turnover rate of 5% or less within Operations shifts and for developing, structuring, and enforcing a consistent training program across the team. The incumbent will have a strong background in high-speed manufacturing and proven experience leading cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment. This role is also essential in refining and continuously improving the manufacturing program while leading and developing a high-performing team.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in food or beverage manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role in production or operations management.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Aptean, SAP, NetSuite) and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and other food safety protocols.
• Ability to read, write, perform basic math, and manage moderate levels of work-related stress.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills to plan, implement, and follow through on assignments in a dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to solve complex problems and present practical solutions.
• Regular attendance and punctuality are essential.
• Must exercise a high degree of discretion when handling confidential information and will not disclose such information unless authorized.
• Strong teamwork and initiative are necessary to contribute effectively in a collaborative environment.
• Flexibility to occasionally work outside of normal business hours.
• Ability to work independently and make sound, well-informed decisions.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with third-party audit schemes (e.g., SQF, BRC) preferred and Lean Six Sigma certification or formal training is preferred.
• Experience in specialty or organic coffee operations, including roasting or machine operation, is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Single Serve manufacturing area.
• Lead and develop a team of production supervisors, leads, and operators to achieve production, quality, and safety targets.
• Develop and maintain production schedules to meet customer demand while optimizing labor and equipment utilization.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to ensure adherence to food safety standards and product specifications.
• Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) such as throughput, yield, scrap, downtime, and labor efficiency.
• Partner with Supply Chain and Inventory Control to ensure adequate availability of roasted coffee as well as packaging materials.
• Oversee preventative maintenance schedules and work with maintenance to minimize equipment downtime.
• Support R&D, product development, and new product launches as needed.
• Champion continuous improvement efforts using lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, and other relevant regulatory requirements.
• Maintain team retention goals by keeping quarterly turnover at or below 5%.
• Ensure a structured, effective training program is developed, implemented, and followed by all operations staff.
• Manage, develop, and mentor Operations Leadership, including Supervisors, and Leads.
• Oversee and manage the Training activities and initiatives.

Benefits

• Healthcare benefits | Multiple coverage levels of medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401k Roth or Pre-Tax options | $1 for $1 match and once eligible to enroll, ZERO vesting period.
• Long Term Disability and life insurance | Company provides coverage for all employees.
• Voluntary Life, Disability, Accident & Critical Illness | Various insurance programs are offered to support your needs.
• Employee Assistance Program | To support you and your family’s overall wellbeing to achieve your best and most productive self.
• Sick and Vacation plans | Cascade understands the vital importance of a quality work/life balance.
• Pet insurance | Multiple coverage levels for whatever best suits your furry (or not so furry) friend.
• Cascade Cares | Exciting engagement programs each month
• Leadership Training | We invest in and dedicate time to training some of the best leaders in the industry.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed