Sr. Production Supervisor Needed - Leading Food Manufacturing Firm

The Production Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations during the first shift while ensuring a safe, efficient, and quality-focused work environment. This role leads production teams, coordinates workflow, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and ensures operational goals are achieved through effective workforce and process management.

The supervisor is accountable for production output, employee safety, quality standards, equipment performance, labor utilization, material control, and operational efficiency within their assigned area.

Key Responsibilities

Production Operations

• Supervise daily production activities to ensure schedules, productivity targets, and quality standards are met.
• Lead a team of approximately 30-40 production employees and coordinate operational activities across assigned production lines.
• Monitor equipment performance and production efficiency, addressing issues that could impact output or service levels.
• Communicate potential production constraints, delays, or resource shortages to appropriate departments.
• Maintain accurate production records and system transactions within the organization's manufacturing software.
• Drive process improvements to enhance productivity, reduce downtime, and minimize waste.

Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Promote a strong workplace safety culture through employee engagement, training, and accountability.
• Support safety initiatives and participate in workplace safety programs and investigations as needed.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and company safety regulations.
• Conduct routine safety observations and reinforce safe work practices.

Quality Assurance

• Oversee manufacturing processes to ensure products meet established quality requirements.
• Monitor production activities and implement corrective actions when quality issues arise.
• Verify that quality inspections, documentation, and operational checks are completed accurately.
• Collaborate with quality personnel to identify trends and implement preventive measures.
• Maintain compliance with established quality, sanitation, and operational control programs.

Cost & Continuous Improvement

• Perform regular process and equipment reviews to identify opportunities for improved performance.
• Partner with maintenance and technical teams to optimize equipment reliability and operating efficiency.
• Analyze production data to identify improvement opportunities and implement corrective actions.
• Support lean manufacturing initiatives that improve productivity and reduce operational costs.

Inventory & Production Reporting

• Monitor material usage and production flow to support efficient operations.
• Review production records to ensure inventory and lot tracking accuracy.
• Report discrepancies, shortages, or process issues affecting production goals.
• Maintain accurate operational metrics and performance reporting.

Employee Development & Training

• Identify training needs and coordinate development opportunities for team members.
• Ensure training records and skill matrices remain accurate and up to date.
• Coach employees on performance expectations, work procedures, and best practices.
• Support employee growth through ongoing feedback and mentoring.

Workforce Leadership

• Establish clear expectations and hold employees accountable for performance and workplace standards.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment through effective communication and leadership.
• Address employee concerns, attendance issues, and workplace conflicts in accordance with company policies.
• Partner with Human Resources on employee relations matters when necessary.
• Participate in special projects and operational initiatives as assigned.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Strong leadership and team management skills in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and manufacturing/business systems.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, production planning, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience working in an environment governed by labor agreements is preferred.
• Ability to build effective working relationships across all levels of an organization.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Food Science, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Previous supervisory or leadership experience in a manufacturing, processing, packaging, pharmaceutical, consumer products, or related production environment preferred.
• Experience with quality systems, operational excellence, or regulated manufacturing environments is beneficial.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and production facility environment.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, noise levels, and production equipment depending on assigned work area.
• Frequent interaction with production personnel, support departments, and business stakeholders.
• First Shift Schedule: 5:30 - 2:30 pm, weekends occasionally