Production Manager

California Dairies, Inc.•Los Banos, CA

10d•$100,480 - $151,408•Hybrid

About The Position

Join the California Dairies, Inc. (CDI) team, a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to sustainably producing the highest quality dairy products while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. CDI products are delivered locally and around the world. Located in the heart of the Central Valley, our Los Banos manufacturing facility specializes in creating high value milk powder. We encourage you to be part of our team that's shaping the future of dairy, right from the heart of California!

Requirements

Strong leadership and team development skills
Knowledge of dairy manufacturing processes and food safety systems
Excellent problem solving/decision making skills
Strong communication and organizational skills
Microsoft office proficiency
Ability to work in a fast paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment
Must demonstrate good judgement when carrying out duties as assigned.
Bachelor’s degree is preferred – may substitute 5 years of work experience
A minimum of five years’ combined experience in the manufacturing industry and preferably in a supervisor-level role is required.
English is required as the written and spoken language.
Must possess or be able to acquire a state issued Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

Experience in dairy processing, pasteurization, cultured products, cheese, fluid milk, milk powders or ice cream manufacturing preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage daily plant production activities
Ensuring all safety and health standards are met to keep an organization accident-free
Ensure production schedules are achieved while meeting quality, safety, and cost targets.
Monitor equipment performance, plant efficiency, downtime, and labor utilization.
Coordinate with maintenance, quality assurance, warehouse, and supply chain teams to optimize operations.
Lead, coach, and develop superintendents, supervisors, and hourly production staff to drive performance, engagement, and continuous improvement.
Communicating regularly with upper management regarding problems or issues impacting production
Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.
Must obtain medical clearance to use respirator and maintain certification.
Conduct performance evaluations, training, and disciplinary actions as needed.
Manage staffing levels and labor scheduling to support operational demands.
Support audits, inspections, and corrective action programs.
Partner with Quality Assurance to investigate product deviations and implement preventive measures.
Support and enforce SQF / QA, GMP, Safety policies and procedures, and production needs. “Food Safety and Quality” are the responsibilities of this position.
Support plant manager and cover in his/her absence
Performs other related duties as assigned.