Production Site Director: Lean Operations & Growth

Hilmar; Dodge City (KS); On-site; USD 178,000 - 267,000; Full time

Job summary

Hilmar Cheese Company is seeking a Site Director to oversee the new Dodge City, KS site, ensuring safe, on-schedule production of cheese, ingredients, and warehouse operations. The role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and advanced lean manufacturing expertise to sustain profitability and competitive advantage.

The position emphasizes cost control, continuous improvement, and cross-functional leadership to align operations with Hilmar's standards and community commitments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree plus 10 years related experience or Master’s degree plus 7 years related experience.
• Demonstrated leadership, critical thinking, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Advanced knowledge of lean manufacturing.
• Experience in project management leadership and strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design and implementation of operational systems for the new site in Dodge City KS, including project and change management for commissioning, validation, startup and integration into Hilmar processes.
• Oversee production of all cheese, ingredients and warehouse operations, ensuring safety, quality and environmental standards.
• Set direction and develop personnel and systems to keep the manufacturing operation cost effective and competitive.
• Develop short- and long-term production goals and monitor cost and quality systems to protect margins.
• Foster continuous improvement and guide labor, waste, and cost reduction initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Critical thinking

Analytical skills

Lean manufacturing

Project management

Strategic planning

Financial/budgeting

Operations policy

Education

Bachelor’s degree +10 years experience

Master’s degree +7 years experience

Job description

Hilmar Cheese Company is seeking a Site Director to oversee the new Dodge City, KS site, ensuring safe, on-schedule production of cheese, ingredients, and warehouse operations. The role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and advanced lean manufacturing expertise to sustain profitability and competitive advantage.

The position emphasizes cost control, continuous improvement, and cross-functional leadership to align operations with Hilmar's standards and community commitments.