Operations Manager

SkyChefs; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

SkyChefs in San Francisco, CA is seeking an experienced Ramp Operations Manager to lead a large, diverse team in a fast-paced production environment. You will oversee loading, unloading, and catering to meet tight airline schedules while upholding safety and quality standards.

You will drive staffing, scheduling, and labor cost control, work closely with airline partners and unions, and lead continuous improvement initiatives across Lean, GMP, HACCP, and GPS-based performance.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading large teams in fast-paced operations.
• Proven ability to optimize production processes and reduce costs.
• Strong knowledge of safety, GMP, HACCP, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing and GPS performance systems.

Responsibilities

• Direct all ramp operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant execution.
• Drive daily productivity through planning, staffing, scheduling, and labor cost control.
• Guarantee on-time aircraft catering and equipment delivery aligned with airline schedules.
• Lead root-cause investigations and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain relationships with airline partners, internal departments, and unions.

Skills

Team leadership

Operations management

Lean manufacturing

Safety & compliance

Cost control

Communication

Scheduling

Root-cause analysis

GMP/HACCP knowledge

OSHA/USDA/FDA regs

Job description

About usSince 1942, SkyChefs has taken culinary excellence to new heights. As a trusted partner to the nation’s leading airlines and retailers, we proudly deliver millions of meals and exceptional service experiences every year across 43 sites throughout the United States. Built on a legacy of operational excellence, culinary expertise, and continuous innovation, we are committed to setting the industry standard in aviation culinary, airline services, last-mile logistics, and retail commerce. From the kitchen to the runway, our teams work together to deliver quality, reliability, and service at every altitude. Our people are the heart of everything we do. At SkyChefs, a career is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to grow, lead, and make an impact in a fast-paced, team-driven environment. Join America’s first, foremost, and finest and take your career to new heights.

About the Role

Are you ready to take on a dynamic role in one of the world's largest airline catering and hospitality providers?

SkyChefs is on the lookout for a passionate and driven Operations Manager who thrives in a fast-paced production environment and enjoys managing a large diverse group of employees that are focused on delivering a quality product to our customers.

As the Ramp Operations Manager, you will oversee loading, unloading, and catering, hitting airline schedules and exceeding expectations as well as play a pivotal role in monitoring and engaging employees in all safety and performance initiatives.Your leadership will be instrumental in guiding, motivating, and developing our talented team members, ensuring that our values and management principles are at the heart of everything we do.

Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Direct all ramp operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant execution
• Drive daily productivity through effective planning, staffing, scheduling, and labor cost control
• Guarantee on-time aircraft catering and equipment delivery that aligns with strict airline schedules
• Lead root-cause investigations for service or quality issues and implement corrective actions
• Maintain strong relationships with airline partners, internal departments, and union workforce

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure full compliance with FDA, USDA, OSHA, HACCP, GQS, and airline-specific requirements
• Champion a culture of safety and accountability across all ramp teams
• Attend daily operational briefings and provide insight on shift performance

Resource Optimization

• Manage inventory levels for customer‑specific equipment
• Oversee deployment of staff, equipment, and materials to meet operational demands
• Support annual budgeting, business planning, and performance tracking

Leadership Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing team aligned with company values
• Manage performance through the Global Performance System (GPS)
• Foster a culture of teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement
• Support initiatives in Lean Manufacturing, Quality, Safety, and Operational Excellence
• Ensure the department is organized, staffed, and supported to meet business goals

Required Skills

• 5–7 years of management experience in operations, logistics, distribution, aviation, food production, or a similar fast‑paced environment
• Experience in using and managing Variable Production Systems and schedules
• Strong communication, training and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing
• Proven success in improving work processes and leading change in a complex, fast environment
• Proven ability to lead large teams and drive performance in a high‑pressure setting
• Strong knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), FDA, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations
• Strong knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and HACCP guideline
• Analytical mindset with experience managing cost drivers and productivity metrics
• Demonstrable record of understanding and meeting customer expectations
• Proven track record of understanding the drivers of product and labor cost variances
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office and Windows‑based computer applications
• Must have Valid DL
• Must be able to lift, push, pull up to 50lbs.
• Must have understanding of food safety, regulatory compliance, and GMP
• Previous supervisory experience required

SkyChefs is an EEO and Affinitive Action Employer of Women/Minorities/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.