Position title
Operations/Production Manager
Description

About the Role

This family-owned food processor is seeking a highly driven Production/Operations Manager to lead the planning, scheduling, and execution of all manufacturing operations. This role oversees Shift Supervisors and ensures production targets are met safely, efficiently, and with exceptional quality. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with a continuous-improvement mindset, passionate about optimizing processes and developing high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee daily production activities to ensure operations run safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
  • Manage and mentor Shift Supervisors; provide coaching, performance reviews, and development opportunities.
  • Collaborate with Maintenance and Sanitation Teams to schedule routine and annual maintenance with minimal production disruption.
  • Optimize production planning and scheduling to meet plant output goals and on-time delivery requirements.
  • Monitor production KPIs and use data-driven insights to improve processes and reduce waste.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Maintenance, Sanitation, Quality, and Procurement to align production with company-wide objectives.
  • Support and enforce compliance with all safety, food safety, and regulatory standards (OSHA, company policies, etc.).
  • Lead daily and weekly production meetings; communicate expectations, performance updates, and improvement opportunities.
  • Develop and implement contingency plans to address equipment downtime, labor shortages, or supply constraints.
  • Champion continuous improvement, including lean manufacturing practices and modern production technologies (automation, IoT, AI).
  • Support strategic planning initiatives and contribute ideas to improve efficiency, scalability, and long-term production capabilities.
  • Ensure accurate inventory control and production reporting through ERP systems and other production software.
Qualifications

Qualifications

Required:

  • 5+ years of experience in production or manufacturing
  • 2+ years in a supervisory or managerial role
  • Strong knowledge of production planning, scheduling, and manufacturing processes
  • Experience with lean manufacturing, quality control, and continuous improvement
  • Familiarity with OSHA and other safety regulations
  • Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills
  • Proficiency in production/ERP software and Microsoft Excel
  • Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and decision-making abilities
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or different shifts as needed
  • Physical ability to work in a manufacturing/industrial environment
  • Most of all, an individual who is motivated to be on the floor most of the time with their team, both leading by example, while developing a strong talent bench from which to pull.

Preferred:

  • Bachelor’s degree (Industrial Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field)
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish)
Job Benefits

Benefits

  • 401(k) + 401(k) matching
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Paid time off
  • Bonus opportunity
  • Many other great benefits, including future growth opportunities from within.
Employment Type
Full-time
Beginning of employment
Immediate
Duration of employment
Full Time Permanant
Industry
Food Processor
Job Location
Greater Chico Area, California, USA
Base Salary
$80,000-$130,000 Per year
Date posted
November 18, 2025
Valid through
December 31, 2025
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