Production Manager (Nights)

SunOpta • Allentown, PA

26d • Onsite

About The Position

Leads and coordinates daily manufacturing operations to meet production, quality, safety, and cost objectives in a fast-paced environment. Executes production plans, optimizes resources, and drives continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and reduce waste. Provides hands-on leadership by engaging and motivating teams, including direct development of Production Supervisors. Sets clear expectations and drives accountability for performance, safety, and quality standards while building a strong, high-performing team. Partners with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth operations and timely product delivery.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent experience
• 2+ years in Aseptic, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical or other highly regulated manufacturing environment
• Supervisory experience required, including direct leadership of production or operations teams
• Demonstrated critical thinking skills, with the ability to effectively plan, analyze, and resolve operational challenges in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Strong understanding of manufacturing financials, including labor management, cost control, and budget accountability
• Working knowledge of key performance indicators such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and other productivity metrics

Nice To Haves

• Previous TPM and/or Lean Continuous Improvement experience preferred, including practical application of waste reduction, process optimization, and performance improvement methodologies

Responsibilities

• Coordinates daily manufacturing activities to meet production schedules, quality standards, and cost targets; supports efforts to reduce waste and improve efficiency within established staffing levels.
• Leads daily shift communications and planning for multi-line operations, establishing clear production priorities and expectations while driving team engagement, accountability, and effective use of labor, equipment, and resources.
• Develops and executes daily, weekly, and short-term production schedules in coordination with Scheduling, Maintenance, Purchasing, and Customer Service to meet customer requirements.
• Monitors production performance using available systems and tools to track efficiency, waste, and downtime; works through Production Supervisors to drive accountability, address performance gaps, and implement corrective actions to improve results.
• Coordinates with Maintenance to support preventative maintenance activities and address equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain reliable operations.
• Ensures compliance with quality and food safety standards, including GMP and PPE requirements; participates in audits, inspections, and follow-up actions to maintain required standards.
• Supports new product introductions and plant trials by coordinating production activities with cross-functional teams as needed.
• Collaborates with plant departments including Maintenance, Quality, and Customer Service to resolve production-related issues and maintain smooth operations.
• Monitors daily production metrics such as waste, downtime, and labor efficiency; takes action to address variances and improve performance in line with budget targets.
• Supports implementation of continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean Manufacturing, TPM, or other process improvement methodologies to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Works with HR and plant leadership to support staffing needs, employee relations, and consistent application of company policies.
• Provides direct supervision, coaching, and development for Production Supervisors and production employees; builds leadership capability within the team by setting clear expectations, actively motivating performance, and holding individuals accountable to safety, quality, and operational standards.
• Ensures all production activities comply with company policies and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
• Conducts employee training and performance feedback to support development and maintain a safe, productive work environment.
• Promotes a strong culture of safety and food safety by reinforcing safe work practices and compliance across the production team.
• Other duties, as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees