Job Summary:Directs all operations necessary to deliver the lowest sustainable cost and highest quality products in a safe, clean, and environmentally responsible operating environment. Ensures continuous and efficient performance in alignment with company policies, goals, and objectives while fostering a culture of trust, accountability, and collaboration.
Essential Functions of the Job:- Directs the manufacture of products at lowest cost consistent with quality/quantity standards; develops and implements methods of achieving plant goals within established parameters of waste, OEE/Efficiency, and budgeted staffing levels.
- Lead daily communications with staff to plan for multi-line 24/7 operations and establish priorities; coordinates department activities with inter-related plant operations to ensure optimum production and utilization of labor, machines, and equipment.
- Partner with plant scheduling function to ensure that output standards are accurate, 2-week production schedule is optimized and targeted production meets customer requirements. Plans for and controls crew level stability, vacation scheduling and long-term crewing requirements to minimize staffing impact to production operation.
- Monitors all operations regularly and systematically through Redzone and other methods, to evaluate efficiency and cost outcomes. Communicate proactively with Plant Manager on all matters affecting production that require his/her attention, and recommends methods and procedures designed to eliminate operating problems, improve productivity, and effect cost savings.
- Consults with Maintenance Manager to coordinate efforts and develop action plans for the proper maintenance of machines, equipment, and facilities; utilizes knowledge and technical expertise to advise on persistent problems and major breakdowns; serves as primary liaison between Production, Engineering and Maintenance throughout planning, design, and installation phases of capital/improvement projects.
- Enforces quality and safety standards throughout the Production Department and ensures good housekeeping practices are maintained; reviews consumer complaints with staff and oversees adherence to proper recall procedures.
- Participates in the development of new products and product lines; coordinates plant and packaging trials with R&D resources, other applicable departments, customers, and vendors; initiates capital spending recommendations to support future growth and profitability of Plant Operations.
- Coordinates with all plant departments as required to provide advice and recommendations on production related matters; maintains effective communications and working relationships and resolves any conflicts arising between operating groups or staff units.
- Directs Production Department cost functions including budgets, daily variances, waste, and downtime; reviews standards with Production Manager and Shift Supervisors and submits revisions as appropriate; works with Cost Department to identify and correct problems reporting, manning and efficiencies; oversees preparation and maintenance of required reports, cost estimates and forecasts.
- Participates in the development of current and long-term programs, plans and strategies in support of Plant objectives; assist Plant Manager in formulating policies and goals covering operations, personnel, financial performance, and growth; assumes responsibilities of Plant Manager during absences.
- Authorizes recruitment, termination, and promotion of employees; determines standards of behavior and ensures disciplinary procedures are carried out consistently, according to company policies; coordinates any manning or operational changes with plant leadership team and participates directly in personnel/industrial relations activities.
- Provides leadership, direction, and support to production team to stimulate maximum efficiency and productivity of both supervisors and production workers
- Ensures that all Production Department activities are carried out in compliance with Local, State and Federal regulations governing business operations.
- Provide leadership and direction to subordinates; completes performance and personal development evaluations; reviews and recommends training and development requirements and programs; recommends salary adjustments; conducts information sessions with staff.
- Responsible for promoting food safety and employee safety throughout the organization.
- Other duties, as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent experience
- 5+ years in Aseptic, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical or other highly regulated manufacturing environment
- Supervisory or managerial experience required, including direct leadership of production or operations teams
Knowledge and Skills:- Demonstrated critical thinking skills, with the ability to effectively plan, analyze, and resolve operational challenges in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
- Previous TPM and/or Lean Continuous Improvement experience preferred, including practical application of waste reduction, process optimization, and performance improvement methodologies
- Strong understanding of manufacturing financials, including labor management, cost control, and budget accountability
- Working knowledge of key performance indicators such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and other productivity metrics
Additional Considerations:- Travel Expectation: Minimal
- Location: This position will be at the SunOpta Plant in Midlothian, TX.
- Work Environment: Majority of work is performed in an office / plant environment.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
