3rd Shift Production Manager

Maple Leaf Farms•Milford, IN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Production Manager will manage and direct Production Supervisors, coordinating daily activities, communicating expectations, and addressing operational issues to the production team. This role ensures safety, product quality, food safety, and operational efficiency within the assigned departments. The manager will train, coach, evaluate, and discipline Production Supervisors and Leads, provide guidance and resources for production readiness, and monitor production processes for adherence to quality standards. Responsibilities include evaluating operational efficiency, collaborating with USDA personnel, partnering with Quality Assurance on product quality and food safety issues, and ensuring direct reports maintain compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements. The role also involves overseeing employee training and certification, collaborating with other Production Managers, partnering with Human Resources on employee relations, providing resources for troubleshooting, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

Working knowledge of protein or food manufacturing processes, preferably within the poultry industry.
Knowledge of standard operating procedures, USDA regulations, HACCP, SSOPs, and company policies.
1–3 years of experience in a production, manufacturing, or food processing environment required.
Prior leadership or supervisory experience is preferred.
Working knowledge of computer systems including Microsoft Excel and CAT2 or similar production management systems preferred.
Must be able to read and write in English.
Ability to learn and understand production processes and machinery within the department.
Ability to manage and lead large groups of employees effectively.
Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret production data and reports.
Ability to respond quickly and appropriately to operational challenges or employee concerns.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills are helpful.
Demonstrates leadership, and a strong commitment to safety, quality, and team development.
Leads by example, communicates effectively, and fosters a positive and productive work environment.
Demonstrates sound judgment, professionalism, and a proactive approach to problem-solving while supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or equivalent experience preferred.
Candidates with strong leadership potential and relevant operational experience may be considered in lieu of direct supervisory experience.
Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage and direct Production Supervisors, coordinating daily activities, communicating expectations, and addressing operational issues.
Ensure safety, product quality, food safety, and operational efficiency within the assigned departments.
Train, coach, evaluate, and discipline Production Supervisors and Leads.
Provide guidance and resources to leadership to prepare for production by verifying equipment readiness, setting operational parameters, and ensuring proper production flow.
Ensure operational leadership monitors production processes to ensure adherence to quality standards and specifications; take prompt corrective action when needed.
Evaluate operational efficiency, including line speeds, staffing levels, and employee placement.
Work collaboratively with USDA personnel to address and resolve regulatory concerns.
Partner with Quality Assurance to address product quality and food safety issues, including participation in pre-operational inspections.
Ensure that direct reports have the training and resources to maintain compliance with HACCP programs, SSOPs, and other food safety and regulatory requirements.
Coordinate and oversee employee training and certification processes on production processes, food safety, OSHA standards, and company procedures.
Collaborate with other Production Managers to ensure alignment of production goals and operational needs.
Partner with Human Resources to address employee relations matters including hiring, attendance, performance management, and disciplinary actions.
Provide resources needed to troubleshoot minor mechanical or operational issues and train supervisors on handling issues.
Support continuous improvement initiatives, including Supply Chain Management, Lean Manufacturing, CPI, or other process improvement efforts.
Perform related duties as required.