Production Superintendent - 1st Shift

Perdue Farms; Cromwell (KY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Perdue Farms in Cromwell, Kentucky, is seeking a Production Superintendent to lead operations across multiple production lines. The role focuses on achieving safety, quality, and productivity goals while fostering associate growth and engagement.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in manufacturing, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to maintaining a positive work environment.

Join us in creating a workplace that values teamwork and innovation!

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-5 years in manufacturing, including 2-4 years in a leadership role.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Knowledge of quality control, ISO, and OSHA standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support Production Supervisors to meet production targets.
• Champion safety culture and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Implement quality control processes and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Bachelor’s/Associate’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

ERP systems

Lean manufacturing principles

Job description

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work‑life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive.

That's Perdue.

Summary

The Production Superintendent provides operational leadership across multiple production lines or departments. This role ensures alignment with plant‑wide goals for safety, quality, productivity, and associate development. The Superintendent acts as a key liaison between frontline supervisors and plant leadership, driving strategic initiatives, cross‑functional collaboration, and continuous improvement. They will provide direction, training, and coaching to Supervisors and indirectly to hourly production associates. This role places a strong emphasis on fostering associate growth and engagement while developing talent and maintaining a safety culture of continuous improvement. The Production Superintendent promotes a positive working relationship with the production and support staff to make the company the employer of choice.

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:30am‑6:30pm

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

People Development and Leadership

• Hire, train, lead and support Production Supervisors in achieving daily and weekly production targets.
• Support workforce planning, training, and succession development to build a strong/skilled leadership pipeline.
• Mentor and coach team members to enhance skills and improve performance. Manage performance and learning & development of the team.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and engaged team culture that aligns with company values, leadership behaviors and promotes associate growth. Drive associate engagement and retention.
• Serve as acting Plant Manager when needed and contribute to strategic planning sessions.

Safety and Risk Management

• Champion a proactive safety culture and ensure compliance with all safety, food safety, and environmental regulations.
• Enforce safety protocols and ensure a safe working environment for all associates.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes and ensure team compliance with safety standards.

Food safety, Quality Standards and Continuous Improvement

• Maintain team compliance with all food safety regulations and company policies, including HACCP, GMPs, and sanitation protocols, to maintain a safe and high-quality production environment.
• Establish guidelines and training across teams to ensure products meet or exceed established quality specifications through rigorous adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Implement and monitor team‑wide quality control processes, including inspections, audits, and corrective actions.
• Maintain team compliance with all relevant regulations, including OSHA, ISO standards, and industry-specific requirements.
• Lead corrective actions for non‑conformances and drive initiatives to reduce waste, contamination risks, and product recalls.
• In collaboration with leadership, execute lean manufacturing principles to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Identify and implement process improvements to boost operational efficiency and product quality.

Minimum Education And Experience

• High School Diploma/GED equivalent candidates must have a minimum of 3‑5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2‑4 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Bachelor’s/Associate’s degree candidates must have a minimum of 1‑3 years of manufacturing experience and 2‑4 years of supervisory experience.
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in lean manufacturing, root cause analysis, and ERP systems.
• In depth knowledge of quality control processes and compliance standards (e.g., ISO, OSHA).
• Excellent problem‑solving, organizational and time management skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Requirements And Environmental Factors

• May need to move light equipment or supplies from one place to another.
• May need to access files, supplies and equipment.

When In a Plant Environment

• Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
• May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
• May handle products from 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
• May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
• May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing facility.
• Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.