Packaging Unit Supervisor

Talent 101(Pty)Ltd; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading production firm in Gauteng is seeking a Supervisor to lead the packing team and ensure efficient production processes. You will communicate objectives, supervise the team, and enforce quality and safety compliance. The ideal candidate has 5+ years of supervisory experience in FMCG or food manufacturing, a Matric qualification, and strong leadership skills. This role offers a chance to enhance operational efficiency while managing a supportive team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' supervisory experience in production or packing.
• Proven ability to manage customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Communicate daily production objectives and targets.
• Ensure production line operates efficiently.
• Report deviations and disruptions to the Processing Manager.
• Supervise the packing team to ensure production targets are met.

Skills

Leadership skills

Planning and organizing

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team development

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Relevant tertiary qualification or technical certificate

Job description

Responsibilities

• Communicate daily production objectives and targets to shifts.
• Assess and confirm staffing levels prior to each shift, requesting additional resources from the Processing Manager as required.
• Ensure the production line operates continuously and efficiently according to the assigned plan.
• Immediately report any deviations, disruptions, or potential production delays to the Processing Manager.
• Prioritize tasks to meet production deadlines and adjust resource allocations to ensure targets are achieved at the lowest possible cost.
• Conduct pre-startup, in-process, and post-shift checks and accurately document all data.
• Plan, calculate, and implement the most efficient use of resources including time, material, and personnel to minimize waste.
• Monitor raw material usage and report potential shortages to the Processing Manager.
• Coordinate with other line leaders to optimize resource utilization across facilities.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and performance.

Equipment & Flow Management

• Ensure all machinery and equipment are in proper working order.
• Report equipment faults or breakdowns immediately to minimize downtime.
• Supervise the correct and safe use of all tools and equipment by the team.
• Maintain a smooth and uninterrupted flow of products to prevent contamination.
• Monitor and manage removal of all reject or non-conforming products according to SOPs.

Quality, Safety & Hygiene Compliance

• Enforce adherence to all SOPs, HACCP, ISO, and National Base Operating Standards.
• Actively monitor and enforce safety regulations, including mandatory use of PPE.
• Verify all employees comply with food safety standards.
• Ensure all access doors and gates are secured to prevent unauthorized entry.
• Conduct pre-start hygiene inspections and take corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with cleaning teams to ensure cleanliness, plant washing, sanitation, and waste removal.
• Halt production and report non-conforming products immediately to the Processing Manager.
• Report and propose corrective actions for all non-compliance or non-conformance issues.

Team Supervision & Development

• Supervise and guide the packing team to ensure production targets are met.
• Proactively manage adherence to performance and compliance standards, initiating disciplinary action if required.
• Monitor and report daily time and attendance, leave requests, and elevate to Processing Manager for approval.
• Continuously assess technical skills and competence of the team.
• Provide on-the-job training and support to improve individual and team performance.
• Identify development needs and collaborate with the Processing Manager on training plans.
• Leverage individual strengths within the team to maximize efficiency.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Actively communicate production goals, updates, and issues with the team.
• Resolve conflicts effectively and ensure information flow across shifts and departments.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Matric / Grade 12 required; relevant tertiary qualification or technical certificate in production, manufacturing, or logistics preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years’ supervisory experience in production or packing within FMCG or food manufacturing.
• Proven ability to manage, maintain, and deliver against customer requirements.
• Experience in production planning, execution, and operations management.
• Demonstrated experience in team leadership, coaching, and performance management.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent planning, organizing, and prioritization abilities.
• Analytical skills for efficiency, resource management, and problem-solving.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and quality compliance standards.
• Effective communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills.
• Proactive, motivated, and result-oriented.