Production Team Lead (Friday to Monday Shift)

Spot & Tango•Allentown, PA

34d•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a motivated Production Team Lead to join our state-of-the-art freeze drying facility in Allentown, PA! In this role, you will manage the team that is responsible for the safe and efficient production of high-quality, fresh, human-grade food. This job requires strong communication, analytical, interpersonal, and team-building skills to support site objectives The Production Team Lead is a hands-on position, working within the production rooms daily. You will be responsible for the daily oversight of tray fill, freeze dryers, pack room, and washroom. You will also be responsible for delegating tasks to team members, filling in where needed, and ensuring production goals are met efficiently. You will report directly to the Production Manager to oversee all aspects of the production flow including food safety, quality assurance, employee performance, and safety standards.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Basic equipment troubleshooting experience
Able to operate a computer and/or tablet and utilize the basic standard desktop systems (e.g., ERP, MES, Microsoft Excel)
Able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Strong leadership abilities with a hands-on, problem-solving approach
Able to work in a fast-paced environment and being able to multitask
Focus and emphasis on process improvement
Capable of ensuring a safe work environment while managing worker safety
Strong attention to detail, well-organized, and time management skills
Familiarity with computer systems such as Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, G-Suite
Working knowledge of Lean/TPM manufacturing principles
Working knowledge of HACCP and GMPs
Experience working with equipment HMIs
Physical Demands: lifting and lowering up to 50 pounds, reaching, standing, walking, stooping, crawling, twisting, repetitive motions, working in high elevations (above 6 feet)
Ability to work with allergens and chemicals that might be present in the food environment
Ability to work in hot (60â to 100â), cold (-20â to 60â), noisy, dusty, and wet environmental working conditions
Wear safety PPE (hard hat, body harness, face shield, steel-toed boots)
Adhere to GMP requirements (hair/beard nets, uniforms, hygiene)

Responsibilities

Maintain product quality and safe food handling practices while prioritizing individual safety and reporting any concerns to management
Support operation of freeze dryers, including filling, loading/unloading trays, and sanitizing equipment
Operate equipment (i.e. dishwashers, boxers, taper, and hand trucks) according to proper safety standards
Demonstrate a high degree of ownership for product quality and food safety through maintaining accurate records of QC checks, production reports, and inventory management
Assist the Maintenance team in equipment troubleshooting
Document any inefficiencies in production, identify the root cause behind the issue, and implement corrective action
In-depth knowledge and ability to train employees within all production areas, including tray fill, washroom, packing, and freeze dryers
Ability to lead production rooms and assign tasks to others
Coach and train new hires and team members on room-specific duties and functions
Able to execute production goals for assigned areas with strict adherence to GMP regulations and guidelines
Coach, counsel, and inspire employees not only to meet but also exceed required production goals
Strong communication skills. Provides constructive feedback without shutting down communication among team members
Conduct effective meetings
Develop, audit, and update work instructions and trainings as needed
Able to effectively use and train on Parity Factory
Ensure that all team members are trained on safe procedures when using industrial equipment
Handle conflicts with the assistance of HR while always fostering a positive work environment
Complete other duties as assigned by the Production Manager/Management
Lead day-to-day production activities, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. Average daily work distribution of 70% time on production floor and 30% time completing administrative tasks
Oversee room operations and work alongside line operators to meet daily production volumes and goals
Able to troubleshoot and resolve hurdles to maximize efficiency, quality, and safety
Able to analyze the root cause of inefficiencies or missed targets
Strong attention to detail and ensuring that production meets Spot & Tango's high-quality standards
Follow food safety guidelines and procedures (SOP's)
Must understand and follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's)
Participate in ongoing food safety training
Ensure that the workplace is safe and that employees wear proper PPE
Ensure that equipment is functioning properly and adheres to safety standards
Operate equipment as needed such as forklifts, conveyors, etc.
Willing and comfortable to hold employees accountable for safety violations
Complete timely documentation for safety-related incidents, both positive and negative
Create and maintain training schedules for personnel. Ensure new hires are properly trained by the trainers
Actively participate in meetings (leading as necessary), to provide valuable insights and constructive feedback
Lead, mentor, and coach the Production Team
Work closely with the Production Manager, Shift Manager, and HR for any employee relation matters
Serve as backup and fill-ins for team members as needed
Monitor the performance of employees within the processing rooms
Inform management when employees are not following policies and/or procedures
Strong written and verbal communication with the Shift Manager and Production Manager to ensure goals are aligned and Management is aware of any shortcomings or areas of opportunity for improvement