Production Supervisor

Dairy Farmers of America; Athens (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America in Tennessee is seeking a production supervisor for the third shift to lead and direct production employees, ensuring safe, efficient operations and on-time fulfillment of customer orders. You will manage scheduling, monitor process steps (receiving, standardizing, pasteurization, packaging), coach staff, enforce GMP and quality standards, and collaborate with HR on discipline and training.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; undergraduate degree preferred.
• 2–5 years of manufacturing/supervisory experience, preferably in food/beverage.
• Ability to lead, coach, and develop a production team.
• Proficient in basic computer apps and data handling.

Responsibilities

• Schedule, assign work, and direct production staff to meet daily goals.
• Monitor production steps (receiving, standardizing, pasteurization, separating, packaging) to ensure standards.
• Oversee equipment performance, cleaning, and sanitation; arrange repairs when needed.
• Promote safety and ensure compliance with food safety and quality regulations.
• Manage shift meetings, performance reviews, and staff development activities.
• Ensure GMP and company policies are followed; coordinate with HR on discipline and grievances.

Skills

Leadership

Team leadership

Supervisory experience

Communication

English proficiency

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Undergraduate degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

General Purpose

Provide work direction and supervision to production employees within the guidelines of standard work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Monitor all stages of the production process and ensure accurate processing of product and/or fulfillment of customer orders through appropriate production scheduling. Hold self and others accountable for promoting safety rules and regulations and act in accordance with the requirements for food safety and quality. Ensure that the production process flows smoothly, and daily production goals are met. Function as a resource and point of escalation to direct reports. Coach, mentor, and provide performance development opportunities to team members on an ongoing basis.

Provide work direction and supervision to production employees within the guidelines of standard work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Monitor all stages of the production process and ensure accurate processing of product and/or fulfillment of customer orders through appropriate production scheduling. Hold self and others accountable for promoting safety rules and regulations and act in accordance with the requirements for food safety and quality. Ensure that the production process flows smoothly, and daily production goals are met. Function as a resource and point of escalation to direct reports. Coach, mentor, and provide performance development opportunities to team members on an ongoing basis.

Schedule

Third shift: Monday-Friday 12:00am-8:30am

Job Duties And Responsibilities

• Schedule, assign work, and provide clear direction to production employees. Ensure that the production process flows smoothly, and daily production goals are met
• Monitor operations activities (milk receiving, standardizing, pasteurization, separating, freezing, cooling, filling, mixing, packaging, storing, etc.) to ensure that plant production and quality standards are met
• Monitor the equipment used in production processes to ensure that equipment is functioning efficiently and is properly cleaned and sanitized. Arrange for timely repair/resolution of equipment failures
• Actively promote safe work behaviors and hold self and direct reports accountable for following safety rules and regulations. Conduct accident/injury investigations and send reports of injury to HR in a timely manner to meet rapid reporting standards. May coordinate and/or facilitation plant safety meetings and training
• Understand and fulfill the requirements and regulations for food safety and quality. Administer policies, procedures and programs related to operations
• Supervise production scheduling so appropriate quantities and varieties of product are produced to fill orders, meet demand, meet productivity goals, etc. Ensure materials (e.g., ingredients, packaging) are appropriately staged for next production runs
• Proactively look for ways to increase operational efficiency and contain costs
• Work effectively with employees to promote positive and productive working relationships. Effectively apply work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Administer discipline consistently and fairly. Work with Human Resources and plant management to resolve employee grievances
• Actively communicate with employees through shift meetings and informal methods
• Complete supervisory activities such as administering employee promotions and transfers; reviewing and editing employee timekeeping; completing performance evaluations; mentoring, training, and coaching employees
• Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all company, state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all company regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education And Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Undergraduate degree in related curriculum preferred
• 2 to 5 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food and/or beverage manufacturing
• Demonstrated leadership aptitude, team lead experience, or supervisory experience
• Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of manufacturing process flow and importance to process
• Knowledge of continuous improvement models
• Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to work in collaboration effectively and foster good teamwork
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Able to think and use independent judgment in planning and organizing multiple tasks and information
• Able to demonstrate initiative and follow through on day-to-day responsibilities
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

Equal Opportunity Employer

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

$70000 - $80000 / year