Packhouse Production Manager

Arvo; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an experienced Packhouse Production Manager to oversee operations in Klapmuts. This role involves managing staff, optimizing production processes, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. Candidates should have strong leadership skills and experience in a fast-paced packhouse environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years experience in a packhouse production environment.
• Strong mechanical knowledge of optical sorters and packlines.
• Experience managing large teams in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize multiple pack lines for efficient production.
• Maintain strict quality control standards for packed orders.
• Oversee maintenance tasks on equipment and buildings.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Tools

Optical Sorters

Packlines

Job description

Packhouse Production Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Packhouse Production Manager to join their team based in Klapmuts.

Position Overview

The Blueberry Packhouse Production Manager will oversee packhouse operations to ensure efficient and high-quality packing of blueberries for export and successful distribution.

This role involves managing staff, optimizing production processes, maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with quality and food safety standards, and overseeing peak-season operations, which may include up to six weeks of night shifts on an alternating weekly basis (one week night, next week day, etc.). Working hours can extend up to 12-hour shifts, managing up to 90 people per shift.

Responsibilities

1. Packhouse Operations & Production Management

• Manage and optimize multiple pack lines, ensuring correct setup and adjustments.
• Maintain accurate records of processes, including storage and loading of pallets.
• Oversee production planning and execution, aiming for a 48-hour turnaround for raw stock.
• Maintain packhouse temperatures according to protocols and ensure proper cooling of pallets.
• Ensure all PPECB inspections are completed for export pallets.

Quality & Compliance

• Maintain strict quality control standards for all packed orders, according to customer specifications.
• Use QC data to inform fruit allocation decisions.
• Report out-of-specification products immediately to the Packhouse and Quality Manager.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food safety standards.
• Keep the packhouse clean and organized throughout the season.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Perform pre-season maintenance on pack lines.
• Oversee preventative maintenance and cleaning of sorting and packing lines.
• Ensure cooling equipment operates efficiently, with daily checklists completed.
• Manage spare parts inventory to reduce downtime.
• Schedule and perform maintenance tasks on equipment and buildings.
• Log maintenance activities and timesheets.

People & Shift Management

• Manage all staff on a shift (up to 90 people during peak season).
• Ensure adherence to SOPs, operational procedures, and company regulations.
• Report HR issues to the HR Manager and seek assistance when needed.
• Manage employee timekeeping and productivity.
• Foster a collaborative, motivated, and high-performance team culture.

Systems & Reporting

• Manage the packhouse system from receiving to dispatch.
• Monitor cold room conditions daily and report system errors immediately.
• Ensure accurate documentation of all processes.

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years experience in a packhouse production environment (blueberries or other soft fruits preferred).
• Strong mechanical knowledge of optical sorters and packlines (e.g., BBC or Weco), including maintenance.
• Experience managing large teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work up to 12-hour night shifts during peak season.
• Knowledge of blueberry packing requirements for export markets.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with PPECB inspections and compliance.
• Understanding of quality control and food safety standards.
• Proficiency in packhouse software and reporting systems.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs)

1. Production Efficiency – Optimize pack lines, achieve 48-hour turnaround, and minimize downtime.
2. Quality Management – Maintain export standards and ensure QC-driven decision-making.
3. People Management – Lead, motivate, and manage seasonal staff effectively.
4. Equipment & Maintenance – Ensure pre-season and ongoing maintenance of key equipment.
5. Compliance & Reporting – Adhere to food safety and health regulations and maintain accurate records.

Additional Details

Location: Eaglevlei, Klapmuts

Employment Type: Full-Time

Start Date: July

Reports To: Packhouse Manager

Own Transport: Non-negotiable