Production Supervisor, Cheese

Leprino•Allendale, MI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Leprino is seeking a Production Supervisor for the Cheese Department at its 300-person manufacturing facility in Allendale. The supervisor leads and supports hourly employees to maintain product quality, safety, and efficient production across shifts. The role includes planning staffing, developing team members, overseeing shift operations and food safety systems, coordinating with maintenance and quality teams, and monitoring performance to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Dairy Technology, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
At least 5 years of experience in food manufacturing.
At least 1 year of experience leading, mentoring, or delegating work to others.
Working knowledge of processing or packaging systems, including equipment operation and troubleshooting.
Strong computer proficiency and ability to learn systems such as SAP or other manufacturing software.
Ability to work weekends, swing shifts, and overnight shifts.

Nice To Haves

Experience in dairy or cheese manufacturing, particularly in packaging or processing operations.
Prior supervisory experience in a production or manufacturing setting.
Technical understanding of packaging systems and mechanical aptitude for diagnosing operational issues.
Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, and sanitation practices that ensure food safety.

Responsibilities

Lead and support hourly employees in the Cheese Department to ensure product quality, team safety, and efficient production.
Plan and schedule daily staffing to meet production goals while maintaining a safe, collaborative work environment.
Coach, mentor, and develop team members through feedback and technical and safety training.
Communicate clearly and recognize employee performance to build trust and teamwork.
Supervise daily shift operations to meet or exceed productivity, yield, and product-quality standards.
Partner with maintenance and quality teams to identify equipment needs and coordinate timely repairs.
Reinforce company policies consistently and fairly while encouraging accountability and engagement.
Oversee quality systems and sanitation programs to meet food safety expectations and regulatory requirements.
Promote safe work practices and ensure employees have the tools and training to work safely.
Monitor financial and operational performance and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and reduce waste.