Processing Manager- AFIC@MCO

University of Arkansas System•Fayetteville, NC

About The Position

The processing manager will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the food processing area and all co-packing performed by the Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks (AFIC@MCO) and report to the Executive Director of the AFIC@MCO within the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. The manager will have responsibility for productions schedules, production area safety and sanitation, and providing customer service and support. Specific responsibilities will include: Managing and participating in the daily operations of the processing areas ensuring that food safety standards are being met and that labor, food, and packaging costs are staying within budget Monitoring inventory levels and ordering supplies, equipment repairs, and other materials needed to keep facility running smoothly. Support and train team members and clients on proper food safety and sanitation practices (HACCP, PCQI, Better Process Controls, etc.) Collaborate closely with business development team to ensure a seamless onboarding process for new clients while providing ongoing support, ensuring client satisfaction and retention. Establish and maintain relationships with relevant industry stakeholders, such as local food associations and food-related organizations, to leverage their networks to increase facility utilization. Generate leads and proactively reach out to potential co-packing clients, including farmers, food entrepreneurs, and small-scale food producers, acting as a point of contact, responding to inquiries, conducting facility tours, and addressing their needs and concerns to build and maintain a robust client list. Supervising processing employees and conducting regular evaluations to ensure they are performing their jobs effectively. Support grant applications that further mission of the AFIC@MCO and UADA.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in food science, mechanical engineering, or a related field, with 8+ years' industry experience. In addition, a master's with 4+ years of related experience is acceptable.
Working knowledge of quality control and food safety standards (HACCP, GMP, etc.)
Excellent communication, cooperation, and interpersonal skills.
Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.

Nice To Haves

Experience with hands-on equipment operations and repair preferred.
HACCP, PCQI, BPCS, & ServSafe Certified.
Experience in developing and implementing food safety programs.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles.
Plant floor production experience preferably in a food manufacturing industry.

Responsibilities

Managing and participating in the daily operations of the processing areas ensuring that food safety standards are being met and that labor, food, and packaging costs are staying within budget
Monitoring inventory levels and ordering supplies, equipment repairs, and other materials needed to keep facility running smoothly.
Support and train team members and clients on proper food safety and sanitation practices (HACCP, PCQI, Better Process Controls, etc.)
Collaborate closely with business development team to ensure a seamless onboarding process for new clients while providing ongoing support, ensuring client satisfaction and retention.
Establish and maintain relationships with relevant industry stakeholders, such as local food associations and food-related organizations, to leverage their networks to increase facility utilization.
Generate leads and proactively reach out to potential co-packing clients, including farmers, food entrepreneurs, and small-scale food producers, acting as a point of contact, responding to inquiries, conducting facility tours, and addressing their needs and concerns to build and maintain a robust client list.
Supervising processing employees and conducting regular evaluations to ensure they are performing their jobs effectively.
Support grant applications that further mission of the AFIC@MCO and UADA.
Ensure that all food production areas are clean and sanitary.
Schedule production and coordinate the work of food processing employees ensuring adherence to AFIC@MCO policies and procedures including training new employees.
Ensure necessary food processing paperwork is complete including inspecting finished products for safety and quality.
Investigate and resolve complaints from customers.
Oversee state, federal, and third-party audits.
Monitor inventory levels of necessary production and food safety supplies and order as necessary.
Develop and implement plans to increase efficiency and productivity in the food processing areas including assisting in the development and launch of new products.
Participate in meetings with other team members to discuss AFIC@MCO initiatives including preparing reports on the activities of the food processing areas.
Flexibility to travel, as needed, and work outside of regular office hours, as required.