Operations Manager

General Purpose:

Manage operating departments and staff within the plant in areas such as milk receiving, warehouse/cooler, processing, filling, packaging, and/or retort departments for operations. Provide work direction and supervision to supervisors and employees within the guidelines of standard work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Work closely with plant management and serve as a liaison with corporate functional departments including quality assurance, human resources, accounting, engineering, purchasing, research and development, and risk management. Direct personnel activities of department, such as recruitment, hiring, performance evaluations, and salary adjustments using independent judgment within the framework of established human resources policies and practices.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage daily activities of supervisors and operations staff to ensure orders are received, scheduled, produced, and shipped safely, at the lowest cost, and at standards to meet customers' requirements and service level agreements, while maintaining established safety and quality standards
• Monitor continuous plant operations in all areas and report deficiencies to plant leadership; identify and resolve operational issues; evaluate current procedures, practices, and precedents for accomplishing plant activities and functions; develop and implement alternative methods of work improvement
• Ensure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed and maintained for all operational activities
• Develop, implement and update plant operations for all processes; assist in development and implementation of plant safety programs
• Ensure that all federal regulations and company policies are understood and followed by supervision and communicated to and understood by all production department employees; advise them of correct interpretation when necessary
• Conduct meetings with department management to communicate essential policies, plans, or problems affecting operations and employee relations and general company information
• Maintain preparation for and participate in all plant inspections by USPH, USDA, and other authorized agencies, utilizing appropriate staff
• Monitor inventory levels for supplies and equipment and initiate purchases as necessary
• Prepare reports and records for management review
• Evaluate the cohesiveness and team spirit of supervision and employees and their awareness of quality performance
• Manage assigned employees, including recruitment, supervision, scheduling, development, evaluation, and performance management. Understand and effectively apply work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Administer discipline consistently and fairly. Work with Human Resources and plant management to resolve employee grievances.
• Actively communicate with employees through shift meetings and informal methods. Maintain and promote positive employee relations in work environment
• Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all company, state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all company regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Undergraduate degree in related curriculum preferred.
• 5 to 8 years' experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Dairy Experience Required.
• Aseptic and/or UHT experience Required.
• Must have food and/or beverage manufacturing experience.
• Supervisory or management experience
• Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing process flow and importance to process
• Strong knowledge of continuous improvement models
• Skill in leadership and coaching; knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management
• Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Skill in critical thinking, analysis, mathematical calculations, and statistical evaluations
• Able to work in collaboration effectively and foster good teamwork
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Able to think and use independent judgment in planning and organizing multiple tasks and information
• Able to demonstrate strong initiative and follow through on day-to-day responsibilities
• Able to take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems
• Able to present options and ideas to current processes or procedures
• Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism
• Able to communicate with various levels of personnel to ensure customers' needs and requirements are met
• Able to respond courteously and efficiently to inquiries, complaints, and requests
• Able to interpret and apply company policies
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer