Area Leader - Onsite, Fast-Paced Food Plant Growth

The J.M. Smucker Co.; McCalla (AL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Co. in McCalla, AL is seeking an Area Leader to guide a high‑performing manufacturing team on the Uncrustables line.

You will drive safety, quality, and production targets in a fast‑growing, on‑site operation. This role emphasizes hands‑on leadership, coaching on the plant floor, and cross‑functional collaboration with Engineering, Quality, and Operations. You will shape culture, develop talent, and deliver continuous improvements that boost productivity and reliability for

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Bachelor of Science preferred.
• 2+ years of manufacturing operations experience.
• 2+ years of leadership experience.
• Food manufacturing experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team to safely deliver quality products while meeting production goals.
• Champion a world-class safety culture through visible leadership and accountability.
• Drive operational excellence by eliminating losses, improving processes, and delivering results.
• Maintain a strong presence on the plant floor, coaching and developing team members.
• Set clear expectations, provide timely feedback, and manage performance.
• Build an engaged, high-performing team through recognition and positive leadership.
• Lead daily shift meetings, establish priorities, and make real-time adjustments to achieve targets.
• Make sound business decisions that support safety, quality, service, and cost objectives.
• Develop team members for current success and future growth opportunities.
• Oversee training and qualification programs to build capability and consistency.
• Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Technical Services, and Quality teams.
• Support plant startup activities, including commissioning, qualification, and verification (CQV).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, reliability, and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Continuous improvement

Problem solving

Communication

Coaching & development

Microsoft Office

Organization

Team motivation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Bachelor of Science preferred

Job description

The J.M. Smucker Co. in McCalla, AL is seeking an Area Leader to guide a high‑performing manufacturing team on the Uncrustables line.

You will drive safety, quality, and production targets in a fast‑growing, on‑site operation. This role emphasizes hands‑on leadership, coaching on the plant floor, and cross‑functional collaboration with Engineering, Quality, and Operations. You will shape culture, develop talent, and deliver continuous improvements that boost productivity and reliability for