Production Supervisor

Dairy Farmers of America; Rochester (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America is seeking a production supervisor to direct daily manufacturing activities, ensuring quality and on-time fulfillment. The role emphasizes safety, GMP adherence, and staff development within a fast-paced dairy environment.

You will lead shift teams, monitor processes from receiving through packaging, and coordinate with maintenance to minimize downtime while upholding company standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Undergraduate degree preferred.
• 2–5 years' manufacturing leadership experience.
• Demonstrated leadership aptitude.
• Certification or license may be required during course of employment.

Responsibilities

• Schedule, assign work and direct production employees to meet daily goals.
• Monitor production activities to ensure quality and productivity.
• Oversee equipment operation, cleaning and sanitation; arrange repairs.
• Promote safe work behaviors and document incidents as needed.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality and GMP requirements.
• Supervise production scheduling and material staging for runs.
• Foster teamwork and address employee relations with HR and management.
• Conduct shift meetings and performance evaluations.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Production scheduling

Safety and food safety knowledge

Team leadership / coaching

Communication skills

Lean / continuous improvement

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor's degree preferred

2–5 years manufacturing experience

Leadership experience

Certification / license may be required

Tools

Microsoft Office

Company computer systems

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.

Shift

Monday-Friday start time of 4:30am

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 facilitate 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

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans