Assistant Plant Manager

Job Overview

The Assistant Plant Manager supports the Plant Manager in overseeing manufacturing and packaging operations. This role involves providing leadership and guidance to direct reports to enhance their effectiveness and foster positive working relationships. The Assistant Plant Manager will also be responsible for strategically managing plant operations, collaborating closely with the Quality, Safety, Maintenance, Warehouse, Safety, HR, Customer Service and Procurement   Departments to drive continuous improvement in processes, systems, and competencies. The focus will be on identifying opportunities to enhance production efficiency by utilizing all available resources.

Essential Accountabilities

• Oversight of all shifts in the production process to ensure products and processed in a manner that exceeds the quality and value expectation of our customers and consumers by adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices, Policies and Procedures outlined in our Safe Quality Food Program.

• Foster an environment where safety and quality are high priorities by ensuring all employees perform any assignment or job task according to the stated safety policies and procedures

• Oversee and coordinate plant operations in alignment with company policies and procedures, ensuring the production of products that meet quality, cost, volume, and service goals, all under the guidance of the Plant Manager

• Develop and implement plans and processes to minimize manufacturing costs by optimizing the use of employees, equipment, facilities, materials, and capital

• Responsibility for ensuring that staffing and competency levels are achieved/exceeded in all aspects of the manufacturing process by establishing, managing and maintaining a well-trained motivated staff. 

• Work closely with functional departments to ensure coordination between purchasing, quality, maintenance and finance.

• Maintain individual skills, keeping up to date with latest production, technological changes and production management

• Remove waste and constraints from the production process to improve efficiencies and enhance productivity

• Collaborate with Sales and Quality Divisions to develop and bring to market new products (Collaborate with technical services).                               

• Partner with the Purchasing to develop and improve supplier relationships for all Plant inputs 

• Other responsibilities as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial, mechanical electrical, or process Engineering, Operation’s Management (or other technical field) preferred or Associate’s Degree in a technical field plus commensurate experience. 

• Five to ten years of progressive manufacturing experience with leadership responsibilities in Plant Operations, Maintenance Processes, Project Management, Manufacturing job estimating, and Financial Management, all preferably in a food/cheese environment.

• Knowledge of lean principles, Black Belt is a plus

• SQF experience

• ERP knowledge and experience is required.  ERP implementation experience is a plus.

• Must have the ability to plan, set objectives and goals, prioritize, measure performance, provide direction and meet deadlines.

• Decision making and problem-solving skills.

• Positive and goal oriented, willing to accept the challenge of new assignments and be able to work well with others.

• Must be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, with emphasis on teamwork, customer service and safe working practices.

• Compatible with company culture and core values. 

• English language skills (reading, writing, comprehension).

• Lead Teams in solution process

Work Environment

Work environment involves moderate risks or discomforts which may require special safety precautions working around moving machines in production facilities, Protective clothing or gear such as goggles, gloves and shoes may be required. 

Physical Demands

Work requires some physical strain such as long periods standing and walking in production facility, and lifting of moderately heavy items such as test equipment kits and product cases. Other physical demands include climbing, crouching, and reaching. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.