Production Manager

AmpersandPeople; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Desi Fresh Foods in Winchester, VA is seeking a skilled Production Manager to oversee daily dairy processing operations. You will lead production supervisors, drive efficiency, quality, and safety, and report to the Plant Manager at the on-site facility in Frederick County, VA.

The ideal candidate has 5–10+ years in production management in dairy, strong leadership, and expertise in production planning, quality control, and safety.

Qualifications

• Must have prior work experience in a Dairy Product Manufacturing environment.
• Bachelor's degree or commensurate experience in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• Advanced degrees or certifications in production management or Lean/Six Sigma are a plus.
• Minimum 5–10+ years of experience in production management or a similar role, with a proven track record of achieving production goals and managing teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production activities, including scheduling, workflow, and resource allocation to meet schedules and efficiency targets.
• Supervise and support production staff, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and streamline operations using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations and promote a culture of safety.
• Coordinate with Inventory Manager to track raw materials and finished goods; work with procurement/logistics to ensure material handling and storage.
• Track and analyze production metrics, prepare and present reports to senior management.
• Assist with budget coordination for labor, materials, and overhead; monitor expenses and implement cost-control measures.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem-solving

Production planning

Quality control

Safety regulations

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

ERP systems

MS Office

Job description

About Us

Desi Fresh Foods is a leading \"cultured\" dairy manufacturer with 25+ years of experience. We produce high-quality and consistent products, which include yogurt (Dahi or Indian, Greek and traditional), smoothies/yogurt drinks, sour cream, and dips from single serve options to food service sides. We are currently seeking a skilled Production Manager to join our team and contribute to the ongoing success of our facility in Frederick County, Virginia!

About The Role

As Production Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the processing facility. This role involves managing production supervisors, ensuring efficient and effective production processes, meeting production targets, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Reporting into the Plant Manager, the Production Manager will play a crucial role in driving operational excellence and continuous improvement within the production department. This position is onsite, full-time, in Winchester, VA.

Key Responsibilities

• Production Oversight: Manage and coordinate production activities, including scheduling, workflow, and resource allocation. Work closely with the Plant Manager to ensure production schedules are met and maintain high levels of efficiency and productivity.
• Team Leadership: Supervise and support production staff, including hiring, training, and performance management. Foster a positive work environment that encourages teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement. Oversee overtime limits as well as temporary workforce.
• Process Optimization: Identify and implement process improvements to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and streamline operations while meeting the production yield on the product. Utilize Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies as applicable.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Promote a culture of safety and enforce adherence to safety procedures and protocols.
• Inventory Management: Coordinate with Inventory Manager to track inventory levels of raw materials and finished goods. Collaborate with procurement and logistics teams to ensure timely and efficient material handling and storage.
• Reporting and Analysis: Track and analyze production metrics, such as output, efficiency, and downtime. Prepare and present reports on production performance to senior management.
• Budget Management: Coordinate with Plant Manager on production budgets, including labor, materials, and overhead costs. Monitor expenses and implement cost-control measures to stay within budget.

Qualifications

• Must have prior work experience in a Dairy Product Manufacturing environment.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business Administration, or commiserate experience. Advanced degrees or certifications in production management or Lean/Six Sigma methodologies are a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-10+ years of experience in production management or a similar role, with a proven track record of achieving production goals and managing teams.
• Skills:
  • Strong leadership and team management abilities.
  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Proficiency in production planning and control techniques.
  • Knowledge of quality control processes and safety regulations.
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with production metrics and reporting.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with production management software (e.g., ERP systems) and standard office applications (e.g., MS Office).

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. This role has a pay range of $110,000 - $130,000 annually. The pay range provided is an estimated base pay range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, education, and location.

Desi Fresh Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.