Processing Manager- AFIC@MCO

University of Arkansas • Fayetteville, NC

22h

About The Position

The Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks (AFIC@MCO) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Processing Manager to oversee daily operations of the food processing facility and all co-manufacturing activities. Reporting to the Director of AFIC@MCO, this position plays a critical leadership role in ensuring operational excellence, food safety compliance, customer satisfaction, and business growth. The Processing Manager will lead production operations, supervise processing staff, maintain regulatory compliance, and support client development efforts that advance the mission of AFIC@MCO and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, or a related field and 3+ years of relevant experience; OR Master’s degree in a related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of food processing, quality control and food safety systems (HACCP, GMP, etc.).
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience.
• Ability to maintain regulatory compliance and audit readiness.
• Strong problem-solving skills and customer service orientation.
• Flexibility to travel and work outside normal business hours as required.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with food processing equipment operation and repair.
• HACCP, PCQI, Better Process Controls School (BPCS), and ServSafe certifications.
• Experience developing and implementing food safety programs.
• Plant floor production experience in food manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and actively participate in daily food processing and co-packing operations.
• Develop and manage production schedules to ensure efficiency and on-time delivery.
• Maintain compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards.
• Monitor labor, ingredients, and packaging costs to ensure budget adherence.
• Inspect finished products for quality and safety.
• Ensure all required production and food safety documentation is complete and accurate.
• Ensure accurate client billing for services.
• Oversee state, federal, and third-party audits.
• Monitor inventory levels and order necessary production and food safety supplies.
• Coordinate equipment maintenance and repairs to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Maintain clean and sanitary production areas at all times.
• Support and train staff and clients in HACCP, PCQI, Better Process Controls School (BPCS), GMPs, and related food safety standards.
• Assist in the development and implementation of food safety programs.
• Ensure compliance with all AFIC@MCO policies and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with the business development team to onboard new clients and ensure a seamless transition into production.
• Serve as a point of contact for co-packing clients, including farmers, food entrepreneurs, and small-scale food producers.
• Conduct facility tours and respond to client inquiries.
• Investigate and resolve client concerns or complaints.
• Participate in entrepreneurial workshops delivered by AFIC@MCO.
• Supervise processing employees and conduct regular performance evaluations.
• Train and mentor team members to ensure effective job performance.
• Foster a collaborative, safety-focused work environment.
• Develop and implement plans to improve operational efficiency and productivity.
• Participate in team meetings and prepare operational reports.
• Support grant applications that further the mission of AFIC@MCO and the Division of Agriculture.
• Travel and work flexible hours as needed to support operations.

Benefits

• The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager