Sanitation Lead (3rd shift)

Richelieu Foods - Wheeling, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Wheeling, IL

Food Manufacturing

About the position

The Sanitation Lead is responsible for leading a team of sanitation technicians to ensure all cleaning tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. This role involves providing training and guidance to sanitation staff on proper cleaning procedures, chemical handling, and equipment operation. The Sanitation Lead will execute thorough cleaning and sanitation procedures according to company protocols and regulatory guidelines, including equipment disassembly, chemical cleaning, and sanitation of production areas. Additionally, the position requires conducting routine inspections of equipment and facilities to identify sanitation issues or areas requiring maintenance, monitoring cleaning supplies and equipment inventory, and ensuring compliance with all relevant food safety and sanitation regulations such as FDA, USDA, and HACCP standards. The Sanitation Lead will maintain accurate records of sanitation activities and work closely with production and quality assurance teams to coordinate sanitation activities with production schedules.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of sanitation technicians to ensure all cleaning tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.
• Provide training and guidance to sanitation staff on proper cleaning procedures, chemical handling, and equipment operation.
• Execute thorough cleaning and sanitation procedures according to company protocols and regulatory guidelines.
• Conduct routine inspections of equipment and facilities to identify sanitation issues or areas requiring maintenance.
• Monitor cleaning supplies and equipment inventory, and promptly report any deficiencies or replenishment needs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety and sanitation regulations, such as FDA, USDA, and HACCP standards.
• Maintain accurate records of sanitation activities, including cleaning schedules, inspection reports, and sanitation logs.
• Work closely with production and quality assurance teams to coordinate sanitation activities with production schedules.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency improvements in sanitation procedures.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or certification in food safety or sanitation preferred.
• Previous experience in a sanitation role within the food manufacturing industry, with at least 2-3 years of lead experience.
• Strong knowledge of sanitation principles, chemical safety guidelines, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP).
• Experience using an electric pallet jack.
• Proficient in operating sanitation equipment and familiar with cleaning techniques for various surfaces and equipment types.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively train and motivate team members.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Short-term disability
• 401K with company match
• Vacation