Production Shift Lead: Food Manufacturing & Safety Leader

Calbee America, Inc.; Subeet (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Calbee is seeking a Production Shift Lead to provide hands-on leadership and technical support across a production shift, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality operations. You will assist the Shift Manager with schedules, training, and daily line activities, back up the scheduler/inventory control, and uphold food-safety standards including HACCP and GMP in a fast-paced plant.

The role requires 2+ years in manufacturing with leadership experience and a strong emphasis on teamwork and

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing or food production with leadership preferred.
• Background in packaging, extrusion, seasoning, or related operations preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and ERP systems.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and lead by example.
• Work in a food manufacturing plant with varying temperatures and noise levels.

Responsibilities

• Assist Shift Manager with daily production schedules, staffing, and line activity coordination.
• Monitor production performance, identify issues, and communicate to Shift Manager.
• Back-up for Shift Manager and Production Scheduler/Inventory Control as needed.
• Track and reconcile raw material usage, WIP, and finished goods for accuracy.
• Conduct verification to ensure food safety, quality, and documentation standards.
• Ensure adherence to OSHA, EPA, FDA, HACCP, GMP, and SQF requirements.
• Maintain a safe, clean, organized work environment per Calbee’s standards.

Skills

Leadership

Training

Communication

Problem solving

Teamwork

Adaptability

ERP systems

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate degree

Tools

MS Office

ERP systems

Job description

Position Summary:

The Production Shift Lead provides hands-on leadership and technical support to the production team to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing operations. This role assists the Shift Manager in coordinating daily activities, maintaining accurate schedules, training employees, and ensuring compliance with company standards. The Production Shift Lead plays a key role in supporting team performance, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining continuous production flow across the shift.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Support

• Assist Shift Manager with daily production schedules, staffing, and coordination of line activities.
• Support Supervisors in ensuring compliance with all policies, procedures, and production goals.
• Monitor production performance, identify issues, and communicate promptly to Shift Manager.
• Serve as a back-up for Shift Manager (non-administrative duties) and Production Scheduler/Inventory Control when needed.
• Track and reconcile raw material usage, WIP, and finished goods to ensure accuracy.
• Conduct verification activities to ensure food safety, quality, and documentation standards are met.
• Ensure adherence to OSHA, EPA, FDA, HACCP, GMP, and SQF requirements.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment in compliance with Calbee’s “Japan Quality” standards.

Leadership & Training

• Lead and support production line teams to ensure consistent performance and accountability.
• Train and certify new employees on production processes, safety procedures, and quality standards.
• Provide feedback, guidance, and coaching to promote skill development and efficiency.
• Promote teamwork, open communication, and positive employee relations.
• Model professional behavior and reinforce Calbee’s values, safety culture, and continuous improvement mindset.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or food production environment, with leadership experience strongly preferred.
• Background in packaging, extrusion, seasoning, or related operations preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and ERP systems.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks, and lead by example.
• Regularly required to stand, walk, and reach; occasionally lift and carry up to 20 pounds.
• May sit for extended periods (up to 2 hours) when performing administrative tasks.
• Must be able to work in a food manufacturing plant environment with varying temperatures and noise levels.

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