Job Description

General Purpose: Oversee and coordinate production activities in the processing or butter rooms, ensuring efficient operations and supervision of assigned employees for each shift. Identify deviations from standards and implement appropriate resolutions quickly while ensuring compliance with safety, quality, environmental, and performance policies to execute production effectively.

Standard Hours: 6AM-6PM

Schedule: 2-2-3 schedule majority of the year. Off season, M-F (8-10+hrs)

Key Responsibilities:

Compliance & Safety:

• Enforce all DFA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and adhere to corporate, regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.

• Ensure staff compliance with safety regulations, policies, and procedures.

Leadership:

• Hold people accountable while meeting or exceeding company goals, Safety, Quality, Cost, and Service.

• Foster a culture of open communication and team autonomy while providing ongoing coaching and mentorship to enhance individual and team performance.

• Lead by example in embracing change and prioritizing safety, ensuring that team objectives align with organizational goals and recognizing achievements to boost morale.

Team Development:

• Provide ongoing training opportunities to equip team members with the necessary skills and knowledge for their roles.

• Develop and maintain a cohesive team, ensuring high-quality performance through immediate feedback and re-training when necessary.

• Provide clear instructions and maintain open communication with staff regarding work and company information.

Production Management:

• Follow a weekly schedule to meet production demands, directing standardization, product transfers, and tank changes.

• Maintain accurate shift records of production activities and inventory management.

Equipment Monitoring:

• Monitor equipment performance to ensure operational standards and cleanliness are upheld.

• Develop solutions for production challenges and seek assistance as necessary.

Inventory Control:

• Balance timing of raw materials incoming to the plant through to finished product.

• Oversee product movement to ensure packaging and bulk loading activities are adequately supplied.

• Maintain records of inventory and product handling to prevent contamination and ensure compliance.

Administrative Support:

• Assist with accounting functions through accurate recordkeeping and inventory confirmations.

• Record and report safety violations, ensuring compliance with safety programs.

Staff Management:

• Review and approve employee hours; educate employees on time-off procedures.

• Ensure that approved employee time off is balanced with adequate personnel coverage to meet operational needs, particularly during peak production periods.

• Monitor attendance and manage progressive discipline as needed.

Training & Development:

• Provide training on OSHA programs and conduct monthly safety training as assigned.

• Assist in onboarding and training new employees.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Be available to respond to emergencies and unexpected operational needs, including nights, weekends, or holidays.

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED with experience in food or beverage manufacturing, including 1 year in a supervisory role preferred, OR a Bachelor’s degree with 1 year of relevant experience.

• Experience in dry milk production is preferred.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and company systems (Excel and SAP).

• Knowledge of supervision, training, and personnel management, particularly in a production environment.

• Familiarity with processing systems, equipment, and federal/state/local environmental regulations.

Communication & Problem-Solving:

• Strong critical thinking, analysis, and mathematical skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively, foster teamwork, and handle conflicts professionally.

An Equal Opportunity Employer