Operations Team Lead — Safety, Quality & Efficiency

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc.; Oakland (MS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. is seeking an Operations Team Manager I in the Oakland plant to lead and develop the shift line team, delivering performance improvements in safety, quality, cost, and efficiency.

This role emphasizes coaching, daily planning, and adherence to GMP/HACCP standards to sustain operational excellence. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives, manage KPIs, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new processes and products.

Qualifications

• Associate degree required; STEM fields preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of manufacturing leadership experience, food industry preferred.
• Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and food safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the shift line team to achieve safety, quality, cost, and efficiency targets.
• Develop daily/weekly production plans aligned with site goals.
• Coach team members to ensure accountability and high performance.
• Oversee daily production activities and resolve issues quickly.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage line cost performance and identify waste reduction opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Communication

Problem solving

Team building

Continuous improvement

Education

2 Year / Associate Degree

STEM degree preferred

Experience in lieu of degree considered

Job description

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. is seeking an Operations Team Manager I in the Oakland plant to lead and develop the shift line team, delivering performance improvements in safety, quality, cost, and efficiency.

This role emphasizes coaching, daily planning, and adherence to GMP/HACCP standards to sustain operational excellence. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives, manage KPIs, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new processes and products.