Evis Production Lead- 1st shift

Down, Inc.; Milford (IN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Down, Inc. in Indiana is seeking a Production Lead to oversee daily production activities and guide team members in alignment with the Production Supervisor. You will help test equipment, set operational parameters, and ensure smooth production flow and compliance with standards.

The role requires strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate across departments in a fast-paced environment. Bilingual in English/Spanish is a plus.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: 1–3 years in production, manufacturing, or food processing preferred.
• Technology: Working knowledge of computer systems including Microsoft Excel and CAT2 or similar production management systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily production processes with guidance to production employees.
• Assist with testing equipment and setting operational parameters.
• Monitor production operations to ensure quality and written procedures are followed.
• Provide coverage for GL or Utilities positions and backup the Production Supervisor as needed.
• Assist with training and onboarding of new employees and support development of the team.
• Collaborate with other departments to meet production goals and standards.
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical or operational issues on production lines.
• Collect, document, and report production data and reports.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CAT2 system

Excel

Job description

Essential Duties

• Lead daily production processes by providing guidance, direction, and instruction to production employees under the direction of the Production Supervisor.
• Assist the Production Supervisor in preparing for production by testing equipment, setting operational parameters, and establishing production flow to ensure processes are executed properly.
• Monitor production operations to ensure product quality standards, specifications, and operational procedures are followed.
• Take appropriate corrective actions when production or quality issues arise and promptly communicate concerns to the Supervisor.
• Provide coverage for GL or Utilities positions when needed and serve as a backup resource for the Production Supervisor within the department.
• Assist with training and onboarding of new employees and support development of current team members.
• Work collaboratively with production employees and leads from other departments to ensure production goals and operational standards are met.
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical or operational issues on production equipment when possible and elevate concerns when necessary.
• Assist with the collection, documentation, and processing of production data and operational reports.
• Perform related duties as required.

Job Specifications

This position requires working knowledge of production equipment, operational processes, standard operating procedures, and quality specifications within a food production environment. The Production Lead must maintain familiarity with applicable regulatory and compliance standards including USDA regulations, OSHA safety requirements, HACCP guidelines, and company policies and procedures. The role requires the ability to utilize the CAT2 Inventory Management System and maintain accurate production documentation. Success in this role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate work activities in a fast-paced production environment. The ability to communicate in both English and Spanish is preferred.

Preferred Experience

One (1) to three (3) years of experience in a production, manufacturing, or food processing environment is preferred. Candidates who demonstrate strong leadership potential, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to learn and develop may be considered even if they do not meet the preferred experience level.

Skills, Abilities, and Education

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: 1–3 years of production, manufacturing, or food processing experience preferred. Leadership or team lead experience is beneficial but not required.
• 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

• Ability to learn and understand production processes and equipment used within the department
• Ability to lead and instruct employees effectively
• Ability to read and interpret production reports and operational data
• Ability to troubleshoot basic mechanical issues on production lines
• Ability to communicate professionally with employees at all levels of the organization
• Ability to collect, document, and report production data accurately
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and other departments
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills

Cultural Match/Behavioral Competencies

The successful candidate demonstrates accountability, reliability, and a strong commitment to safety and product quality. This role requires an individual who communicates clearly, supports team collaboration, and approaches responsibilities with professionalism and sound judgment. The Production Lead should demonstrate initiative, maintain a positive work environment, and support operational goals through consistent performance and adherence to company values and policies.

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

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.