What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager Production position at F&S PRODUCE WEST LLC?
Description
Who We Are
Headquartered in Vineland, NJ, F&S Fresh Foods is leading the way in fresh-cut fruit, vegetables, and meal solutions distribution. With the recent acquisition of five additional state-of-the-art facilities strategically located across the U.S., we now deliver to customers across the United States and Canada — every single day!
For over 40 years, we've been redefining production and safety processes, building strong partnerships, and creating endless possibilities for our diverse customers — from restaurants and supermarket prepared food operations to convenience store chains and beyond. At F&S, we are fueling families with nutrition, innovation, and convenience, turning meals into memorable moments. By combining cutting-edge technology, deep-rooted customer relationships, and operational excellence, we are shaping the future of fresh — from farm to family.
We're not just about food; we're about people. Recognized as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years, our team of 2,100 full-time employees drives our culture forward by living our values every day. If you're ready to be part of a company that values innovation, excellence, and community impact, join us as we embrace our next exciting chapter of growth. Together, we're planting the seeds of progress and nourishing a fresh, healthy future for everyone!
What We Offer
• Competitive compensation package
• Comprehensive benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• 401(K) including company match!
• Paid Time Off annually Paid Holidays
• Career Advancement opportunities and Tuition Assistance
Requirements
What's the Role
The Production Manager leads day-to-day operations within F&S Fresh Foods' food production department, working across multiple shifts to keep output efficient, compliant, and on-spec. This role plays a critical part in translating F&S's standards for food safety, quality, and continuous improvement into consistent execution on the production floor. The Production Manager provides hands-on direction, training, and coaching to supervisors and team members, using recognition and constructive feedback to build a high-performing, safety-first culture. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong food manufacturing experience, comfortable managing KPIs, driving root-cause problem solving, and building trust across a diverse production team.
What You'll Own
• Supervise, plan, and direct daily production activities, staffing, and scheduling based on production demand
• Partner with the Operations Manager to hit production goals for efficiency, hours, and safety
• Lead daily huddles and process control reviews, coaching supervisors on quality specs, line balancing, and changeovers
• Monitor KPIs and use data to identify root causes of underperformance and drive corrective action
• Champion HACCP, GMP, and food safety compliance across the team
• Oversee new product trials and support the team in planning effective product launches
• Manage raw product and packaging inventory, including stock rotation
• Ensure equipment is safe and well-maintained, closing out work orders and enforcing SOPs
What You Bring
• High school diploma or equivalent required; degree or certification in Food Safety, HACCP, or Culinary Arts preferred
• 5 years of experience in a production supervisor or management role, ideally in chilled food manufacturing
• 1 years applying HACCP and enforcing GMPs in a food manufacturing environment
• Proven track record driving results in a continuous improvement environment
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of coaching and developing supervisors and teams
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel), with strong analytical and math skills for KPI reporting
• Able to work in a cold/damp environment and stand for extended periods
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
Physical Demands: Primarily works in a chilled factory or warehouse environment with prolonged standing and walking. Regularly required to stand, walk, reach, grab, carry items, talk, and hear, with frequent use of hands to finger, handle, lift, or feel. Regularly exposed to chilled temperatures. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
F&S is an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at all levels of the organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.