Essential Duties
• Supervise and direct production staff by coordinating daily activities, communicating expectations, and addressing operational issues.
• Ensure production efficiency, product quality, food safety, and employee safety within the department.
• Train, coach, evaluate, and discipline employees in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Prepare for production by verifying equipment readiness, setting operational parameters, and ensuring proper production flow.
• Monitor production processes to ensure adherence to quality standards and specifications; take prompt corrective action when needed.
• Evaluate operational efficiency, including line speeds, staffing levels, and employee placement.
• Work collaboratively with USDA personnel to address and resolve regulatory concerns.
• Partner with Quality Assurance to address product quality and food safety issues, including participation in pre-operational inspections.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP programs, SSOPs, and other food safety and regulatory requirements.
• Responsible for coordinating and overseeing employee training and certification processes on production processes, food safety, OSHA standards, and company procedures, ensuring compliance and effectiveness, and delivering training when necessary.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment of production goals and operational needs.
• Partner with Human Resources to address employee relations matters including hiring, attendance, performance management, and disciplinary actions.
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical or operational issues and escalate concerns as needed.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean, CPI, or other process improvement efforts.
• Perform related duties as required.
Job Specifications
This position requires a working knowledge of protein or food manufacturing processes, preferably within the poultry industry. Knowledge of standard operating procedures, USDA regulations, HACCP, SSOPs, and company policies is required.
The Production Supervisor must be able to effectively lead teams, manage production operations, and ensure compliance with all food safety, safety, and regulatory requirements.
Success in this role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a focus on quality, safety, and efficiency.
Skills, Abilities, and Education
• Education: Associate degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Experience: 1–3 years of experience in a production, manufacturing, or food processing environment required. Prior leadership or supervisory experience is preferred. Candidates with strong leadership potential and relevant operational experience may be considered in lieu of direct supervisory experience.
• Technology: Working knowledge of computer systems including Microsoft Excel and CAT2 or similar production management systems preferred.
• Language: Must be able to read and write in English. Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills preferred.
Skills & Abilities:
o Ability to learn and understand production processes and machinery within the department.
o Ability to manage and lead large groups of employees effectively.
o Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
o Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret production data and reports.
o Ability to respond quickly and appropriately to operational challenges or employee concerns.
o Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
o Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
o Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills are helpful.
Cultural Match/Behavioral Competencies: The successful candidate demonstrates leadership, and a strong commitment to safety, quality, and team development. This role requires an individual who leads by example, communicates effectively, and fosters a positive and productive work environment.
The Production Supervisor should demonstrate sound judgment, professionalism, and a proactive approach to problem-solving while supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Working Climate
This position is primarily performed in a production environment and requires frequent standing, walking, bending, and stooping for extended periods. The role may involve lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 50 pounds and require strong hand-eye coordination.
The position may involve exposure to cold, wet, or humid production environments and requires adherence to all safety and biosecurity practices.