Plant Manager

Job SummaryThe Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing daily operations in a high-volume food manufacturing facility specializing in frozen ingredients. This role ensures efficient production while maintaining safety, quality, cost, and efficiency standards. The Production Manager leads a team of supervisors and production staff to drive continuous improvement, automation integration, and operational excellence in alignment with company goals. This role reports directly to the VP of Operations and serves as a key leader in executing company-wide operational strategy, driving plant performance, and contributing to long-term growth initiatives.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesThe following are essential job duties. Additional responsibilities may be assigned based on business needs. Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is required to effectively perform the responsibilities of this role.Operations LeadershipOversee all aspects of quality products, schedule adherence, and execution to meet customer demand and business goalsEnsure efficiency, waste reduction, and cost control in production processesImplement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement strategies Maintain compliance with food safety (FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF), regulatory, and company standards Collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure optimal equipment performance and uptimeDrive automation adoption and process optimization for increased productivityOperations liaison in the commercialization processPartner with the VP of Operations to develop and execute plant and network-level strategiesFood Safety, Quality & ComplianceEnsure full compliance with USDA, FDA, HACCP, SQF, GMP, and all regulatory requirements Champion a food safety culture and ensure adherence to all FSQA programs Partner with Quality to ensure product integrity, audit readiness, and customer satisfaction Support and external audits and ensure timely corrective actions Oversee sanitation effectiveness and compliance in a frozen food environmentTeam Leadership & DevelopmentFoster a positive, high-performance culture focused on safety, accountability, and continuous improvementEnsure adequate staffing levels, training, and skill development to meet production goalsConduct performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, and employee development plans Promote a safety-first culture, ensuring adherence to OSHA and company safety policiesDevelop talent through coaching, training, succession planningSafety & EnvironmentalChampion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety policies Reduce workplace incidents through proactive safety programs and training Oversee environmental compliance related to waste, water, and refrigeration systemsPerformance & Continuous ImprovementTranslate executive-level goals into clear plant-level execution plansEstablish and monitor KPIs (OEE, yield, throughput, downtime, labor efficiency, waste, etc.) Analyze performance data to identify gaps and implement corrective actions Lead plant-wide continuous improvement initiatives and cost reduction programs Drive operational discipline through standard work and accountability systemsRegularly review plant performance with the VP of Operations, including KPIs, financial results, and improvement plansFinancial PerformanceManage plant budgets, including labor, materials, and operating expenses.Monitor cost performance and implement cost-saving initiatives.Collaborate with senior leadership on capital expenditure planning.Skills/QualificationsBachelor's degree in food science, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field/experience. 5+ years of production management experience in a food manufacturing environment, preferably in frozen food. Experience managing high-volume, automated food production lines. Demonstrated experience in leading teams, improving efficiency, and implementing process improvements. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred; ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing with English- and Spanish-speaking employees, customers, and/or vendors.Strong knowledge of IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) food processing and packaging. Must have Vertical Form Fill and Seal knowledge, horizontal bagging, and other packaging systems knowledge.Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and/or TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) preferred. Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on continuous improvement. Proficient in ERP/MRP systems, production scheduling software, and Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of regulatory compliance, food safety programs, and OSHA safety standards. Physical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally. Comfortable working in cold/freezer environments (~0°F to 40°F). Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, nights, and weekends as needed. WHY JOIN US?Play a key role in the launch of a state of the art facility. Work with a collaborative and innovation-driven team. Help deliver high-quality, safe, and delicious food products to consumers. Contribute to the future of food manufacturing through automation and sustainability.Comprehensive Benefits Package including: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA/HSA, Life and AD&D insurance, Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability, Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance, 401(k) matching, Accident Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays.Harvest Food Group is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, reproductive health decisions, parental status, family responsibilities, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.