Production Manager (Meat)

We are seeking a results-driven Production Manager to oversee daily operations at our meat processing facility. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food manufacturing, with specific experience in meat processing, quality control, USDA compliance, and team leadership. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production in alignment with company goals and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee Daily Production: Manage all aspects of meat processing operations including cutting, grinding, packaging, and cold storage to ensure output meets demand and quality expectations.

• Staff Management: Lead, coach, and supervise a team of production supervisors, line leads, and hourly employees (30-100+ staff depending on shift).

• Safety & Compliance: Ensure all operations meet USDA, OSHA, HACCP, and company safety standards. Enforce sanitation and GMP protocols.

• Quality Control: Collaborate with QA to uphold product specifications and food safety standards; resolve quality issues in real-time.

• Scheduling & Planning: Develop and execute production schedules based on sales forecasts, inventory needs, and raw material availability.

• Cost Control: Manage labor, yield, waste, and downtime to improve production efficiency and reduce costs.

• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements, equipment upgrades, and operational efficiencies using lean manufacturing principles.

• Reporting: Maintain accurate records for production performance, downtime, yields, and compliance documentation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Operations Management, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience accepted.

• 5+ years of production leadership experience in a USDA-regulated meat or poultry facility.

• Strong working knowledge of HACCP, GMPs, USDA/FDA regulations, and OSHA standards.

• Proven track record in managing large production teams in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

• Bilingual English/Spanish is a strong plus.

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early shifts or weekends as needed.