Senior Operations Manager
Senior Operations Manager
Location: Newark & Linden, New Jersey
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Senior Operations Manager to oversee operations across multiple USDA-inspected meat and poultry processing facilities and a frozen distribution warehouse. This is a hands-on leadership role-not a desk job-requiring daily presence on the production floor to observe operations, identify improvement opportunities, and guide teams to implement changes. The ideal candidate has come up through the ranks, understands production firsthand, and excels at driving continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Operations Leadership
- Oversee operations across three production facilities and a distribution warehouse.
- Maintain strong visibility on the floor, observing processes and identifying bottlenecks.
- Ensure efficient conversion of raw materials to finished products while meeting quality and food safety standards.
- Partner with maintenance to optimize equipment performance and maximize throughput.
Team Development
- Coach supervisors and develop a high-performing workforce across multiple shifts.
- Build accountability and elevate team performance through training and mentorship.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with USDA regulations and food safety standards.
- Lead preparation for SQF audits and manage third-party regulatory audits.
- Conduct regular walkthroughs to identify compliance issues and improvement opportunities.
Process Improvement
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and scalability.
- Analyze operational data and KPIs to identify trends and inform decisions.
- Implement process changes and ensure sustainability of improvements.
Required Qualifications
- Meat and poultry processing experience with direct involvement in production.
- USDA-inspected plant experience under active inspection.
- Proven ability to manage large production teams and multiple shifts.
- Hands-on production background-must have worked on the floor.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, SQF audits, and regulatory compliance.
- Technical understanding of high-volume, machine-driven production lines and temperature-controlled environments.
- Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP or similar), advanced spreadsheet skills, and data analysis capabilities.
Core Competencies
- Leadership and team development.
- Keen observational skills and attention to detail.
- Continuous improvement mindset.
- Strong decision-making under pressure.
- Effective communication at all organizational levels.
- Ability to manage change and scale operations.
Work Requirements
- Flexible hours and on-site presence across multiple facilities.
- Ability to travel between Newark and Linden locations as needed.
FAQs
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