Plant Manager

HP Hood; Suffield (CT); On-site; USD 132,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a driven individual to lead efforts in Safety, Warehouse, Transportation, and Quality. This role involves managing budgets, optimizing resources, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards in a high-volume dairy manufacturing environment. With a commitment to employee development and an inclusive culture, this opportunity offers a competitive salary and a robust benefits package. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and excellence in the food and beverage sector.

Benefits

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Wellness programs

Employee discounts

401(k) matches

Tuition reimbursement

Ongoing development

Advancement opportunities

Qualifications

• 7+ years in high-volume dairy manufacturing experience required.
• Experience with operations management in 24/7 environments.

Responsibilities

• Achieve production objectives and manage budgets effectively.
• Enforce GMPs and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Skills

Leadership skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to prioritize and adapt quickly

Innovative mindset

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Experience with ERP systems

Education

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

ERP systems

Job description

Are you a self-driven person looking to advance your career as a high-impact team member? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

About HP Hood

At HP Hood, we celebrate diversity and foster an inclusive work environment. Our culture is built on values of innovation, quality, results, integrity, community, and collaboration, promoting employee engagement, teamwork, safety, and wellness.

We offer a competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, wellness programs, employee discounts, 401(k) matches, tuition reimbursement, ongoing development, and advancement opportunities. This position is eligible for our bonus program.

Founded in 1846, HP Hood is one of the largest and most trusted food and beverage manufacturers in the U.S., with brands like Hood, Heluva Good, Lactaid, Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, Planet Oat, Hershey’s Milk & Milkshakes, and more.

For candidates based in CT, the typical salary range is $132k to $179k.

Job Summary

Plan, organize, and lead efforts to achieve goals in Safety, Warehouse, Transportation, Quality, Employee Relations, Performance, and Cost.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Achieve production objectives, enforce policies, optimize resources and facilities, and contribute to budget and process improvements.
2. Manage budgets and control costs.
3. Enforce GMPs, manufacturing instructions, quality standards, and legal compliance related to dairy processing, environmental, safety, and working conditions. Develop and train team members.
4. Facilitate effective communication across shifts and departments regarding performance and safety.
5. Oversee equipment and facility operations for safety and efficiency.
6. Collaborate with Engineering and Maintenance to maximize output and reduce waste.
7. Supervise direct reports and oversee ethical sourcing guidelines.
8. Maintain a positive work environment with policy development, training, safety, and housekeeping.
9. Stay updated on industry technologies and perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• BS in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• 7+ years in high-volume dairy manufacturing.
• Experience with ESL/Fluid Dairy, operations management in 24/7 environments, budgeting, and regulatory guidelines.
• Experience with processing, packaging, transportation, and customer service targets.

Skills and Competencies

• Ability to prioritize and adapt quickly.
• Leadership skills to inspire and develop teams.
• Strong communication skills for complex ideas and conflict resolution.
• Innovative mindset for safety, quality, and efficiency improvements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.

HP Hood is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including females, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, and is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.