Production Line Lead

Freshpack•Monticello, WI

About The Position

Freshpack is a custom cheese packaging company that develops and innovates cheese products and packaging. Its products are sold in all 50 states and in most major retailers. The company has grown from 15 to more than 290 employees over 25 years and anticipates substantial growth over the next 3–5 years. The Production Line Lead’s general goal is to fulfill or exceed production scheduling expectations by maintaining a safe working environment, building teamwork, increasing productivity and employee morale, and efficiently running production orders. The role requires a basic understanding of planning and monitoring inventory and line progress, and includes training employees in activities that support the role’s success. The position has four progression levels—Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—with higher levels incorporating the duties of the preceding levels.

Requirements

Ability to read and interpret production schedules, work instructions, and product specifications.
Basic math and computer skills.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety, quality, and workplace safety.
Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with team members and supervisors.
Ability to train and assist employees in proper work procedures and equipment operation.
Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing production needs.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a 10-hour shift.
Ability to frequently bend, squat, twist, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to work in cold environments of 33–65 degrees F.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including hairnets, beard nets, gloves, hearing protection, and other required equipment.
Ability to visually inspect products, packaging materials, and equipment for quality and safety concerns.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

Previous manufacturing, food production, packaging, or production experience.
Bilingual English/Spanish.

Responsibilities

Maintain a food-safe production environment by following policies and procedures.
Follow all safety policies and procedures.
Read and interpret production schedules.
Identify and address production-process bottlenecks.
Retrieve and review Shop Orders (SO).
Locate and organize materials in the warehouse.
Issue pallets accurately and efficiently.
Use digital forms to verify compliance.
Walk the production line and complete SPECs.
Track production goals based on headcount (KPI).
Perform product testing and quality checks.
Set up and operate equipment.
Meet line scheduling and efficiency expectations.
Capture and enter job-related data in a timely manner.
Understand machine operating principles and handle machine setup and operation.
Maintain attention to detail and raise or escalate quality-related issues.
Provide leadership and address and resolve problems.
Assist other Foremen with progression through Bronze Level in the Pay for Performance program.
Run any production line or team across the organization.
Respond to RCCAs and participate in process improvements through effective communication and insight.
Assist other Foremen with progression through Bronze, Silver, and Gold Levels in the Pay for Performance program.
Back up the Junior Superintendent.
Train and assist employees in proper work procedures and equipment operation.