Production Lead Operator

About the position

The Production Lead Operator is responsible for overseeing the operation of production lines in the manufacturing department, ensuring productivity, quality, and safety standards are met. This role serves as a frontline leader, coordinating between processing and packaging personnel, managing resources, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. The position requires effective communication, organizational skills, and the ability to train and evaluate team members.

Responsibilities

• Serve as frontline leader between processing and packaging personnel.
• Obtain production schedule, request necessary work materials, and distribute among operators and line workers.
• Monitor productivity, downtime, and reduce waste to standards.
• Perform process control parameters on all lines to ensure accuracy and accountability.
• Verify the presence of all personnel and monitor/coordinate employee breaks.
• Order raw materials for the department and perform monthly and weekly inventory.
• Verify the proper functionality of production lines and ensure product compliance with specifications.
• Schedule and coordinate changeovers with process operators and packaging personnel.
• Complete all documentation and reports as assigned.
• Enter data into the SAP system according to work instructions.
• Ensure processing area is clean and organized.
• Verify oven dwell time, plate temperature, dough development, and product appearance are within specified parameters.
• Train new employees and monitor their progress, including safety and food safety training.
• Support supervisor in safety, productivity, or quality meetings.
• Report all accidents/incidents to the Supervisor, regardless of size.
• Ensure compliance with GMPs and safety standards.

Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required; Associate's Degree preferred.
• 2 years of experience in a production line in a manufacturing plant required; bakery or food/beverage manufacturing preferred.
• Experience as a machine operator in a bakery or food manufacturing environment is highly preferred.
• Experience in a leadership role.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience overseeing a production line is highly preferred.
• Experience and exposure to regulatory inspections (AIB, OSHA, Health Dept., etc.).
• Bilingual: Must be able to communicate effectively in Spanish and English.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance