Production Team Leader - Engineer

IFF • Henry Clay, DE

98d

About The Position

This leadership role oversees production teams, including Packaging Technicians and Spray Operators, ensuring smooth operations, safety compliance, and quality output. The Team Leader manages shift transitions, resolves equipment and process issues, and coordinates with maintenance and quality teams. They maintain detailed documentation and act as the key decision-maker during night hours. This position serves as a strategic development role and a pipeline for future advancement within the company. Individuals who demonstrate strong leadership, technical aptitude, and a commitment to operational excellence may be considered for elevated roles such as Supervisor, Engineer, Project Manager, or other key positions across the organization. It offers a unique opportunity to build cross-functional experience and contribute meaningfully to long-term business goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or an equivalent science-related degree, preferably with manufacturing experience.
• Prior experience in production operations and SAP is highly desirable.
• Supervisory experience or demonstrated leadership ability is a strong plus.
• Familiarity with production processes, quality systems, and safety protocols.
• Understanding of GMPs, SOPs, ISO standards, and PCQI requirements.
• Experience with SAP for inventory, maintenance, and production tracking.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and convey information clearly.
• Proven ability to lead teams, resolve operational issues, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Willingness to work overtime and adapt to changing production needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example and foster a culture of accountability, safety, and teamwork.
• Provide teams with the tools, training, and support needed to perform consistently and effectively.
• Offer daily feedback on production, schedules, quality, and safety.
• Support employee development by identifying training needs and mentoring backup leads.
• Coordinate temporary employees and ensure proper onboarding and training.
• Ensure all operations comply with plant policies, GMPs, SOPs, and work instructions.
• Monitor shift performance metrics and evaluate operating setpoints and procedures for efficiency and consistency.
• Serve as the first line of troubleshooting for escalated issues during the shift.
• Manage shift-level vacation schedules and coordinate overtime coverage as needed.
• Oversee contractor and maintenance activities, ensuring timely resolution of SAP notifications and work orders.
• Learn and support all Finishing Production Lines.
• Ensure accurate and timely communication of critical information between shifts.
• Maintain and verify documentation including batch sheets, HACCP logs, COIDs, POVs, inventory records, cleaning coupons, and safety walk reports.
• Submit daily attendance reports and communicate out-of-spec batches to the Lab and Management.
• Participate in weekly production lockdown meetings.
• Ensure adherence to all quality systems including ISO, Food Safety, Food Defense, and IFF Quality Policies.
• Support internal and external audits by maintaining compliance and documentation.
• Assist in planning and implementing new projects and process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as Quality Assurance, Maintenance, and Supply Chain.
• Lead or support Lean and Kaizen initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.

Benefits

• Inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the company.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees