Beverage Manager / Production Lead

Role Overview You will be a hands-on, highly organized Production & Operations professional leading and executing our juice production operations. This role blends people management, production oversight, operational know-how, and facility stewardship, with room to grow and evolve alongside the business. No bureaucracy - you report directly to the COO, with ample opportunity to make a positive impact within our growing organization! Key Responsibilities Lead, schedule, train, and manage production team, including prep, juicing, delivery Operate at least one farmers market weekly on-site during the busy season Oversee daily production flow to ensure efficiency, consistency, and product quality Manage produce inventory and quality, collaborating closely with ownership to ensure timely and accurate ordering Coordinate with food production to support smooth operations and shared success Ensure facility and grounds are maintained to high cleanliness, sanitation, and guest-facing standards across the entire building, at all times Includes overseeing mowing and trimming during summer months (gardening managed separately, but additional gardening hours available for someone with experience and interest) What We Offer A leadership role with meaningful responsibility and trust The ability to influence systems, processes, and team culture A collaborative, values-driven work environment focused on health, quality, and community Juice and healthy food perks / employee discounts :) Consistent morning/day schedule with flexibility during slower months, with potential for excellent team members to grow with the business and take on more responsibilities through exciting opportunities. Competitive hourly pay Lifestyle job on a peaceful farm A supportive, small-team environment Opportunity to grow with a fast-growing, beloved local brand High level of autonomy, product/juice perks, opportunity to shape your role, and play a key part in growing our mission-driven health and wellness business This role is designed to grow with the business as operations and revenue expand Job description: Job SummaryWe're looking for a reliable, detail-oriented and hands-on production leader to join our beloved kitchen/production team. This key role focuses on leading a team and preparing fresh cold-pressed juices, canned sparkling waters, and other health-forward products in a fast-paced, clean, fun, and purpose-driven environment. If you enjoy working with your hands, take pride in precision, and want to be part of a growing fresh-food and beverage business, this could be a great fit! Join our dynamic production team in a core operational role leading and managing our juicing production and team, where your enthusiasm and attention to detail will help ensure the smooth operation of our food and beverage products. In this vital role, you will execute pristine food safety standards, manage food preparation and packaging, and uphold sanitation protocols to deliver highest-quality products. Your proactive approach will contribute to a safe, efficient, and compliant environment aligned with industry regulations. You will have FUN with a dynamic, passionate, and kind team. Key duties Lead and execute juice and food preparation tasks in accordance with state regulations, HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point), and CGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) standards to ensure safety and quality. Manage food processing activities by organizing ingredients, assembling packaging materials, and preparing products for delivery. Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of work areas, equipment, tools, facility, and farm grounds following strict hygiene protocols to meet food and beverage safety requirements. Operate basic machinery and mechanical equipment safely to facilitate efficient food production and packaging processes. Follow proper sanitation procedures for waste disposal, cleaning schedules, and pest control measures to uphold food safety standards. Manage inventory management by tracking supplies, labeling products accurately, and supporting stock rotation practices. Document daily activities accurately, including production logs, sanitation reports, and compliance checklists to ensure traceability and regulatory adherence. Wash, peel, rinse, cut, slice, weigh, measure, and mix fresh fruits and vegetables according to exact recipes Build juice recipes from provided recipe lists with high attention to detail and consistency Safely operate kitchen equipment including knives, peelers, juicers, blenders, citrus machines, industrial fruit & vegetable washers, and canning equipment for our sparkling water line Fill bottles, wash bottles, and pack orders for delivery Assist with light food product assembly Perform thorough cleaning and sanitizing of the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils Take regular inventory of juices, produce, bottles, and other supplies Occasionally deliver finished products to homes and local businesses using a company vehicle (valid driver's license and clean driving record required) Lift 20-50 lbs regularly (cases of produce, bottles, etc.) Maintain a spotless and organized workspace at all times Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while upholding food safety and quality standards Potential to work farmers markets and other customer-facing events for the right person / experience Requirements Comfortable and confident safely and efficiently using knives, peelers, and other kitchen tools Ability to learn and safely operate specialty equipment (juicers, canning line, etc.) Extremely detail-oriented - precision with recipes and cleanliness is non-negotiable Reliable, punctual, and able to commit to morning shifts Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift 20-50 lbs repeatedly Positive attitude and team player Food Handler's certification a plus (or willing to obtain) Valid driver's license and clean driving record (for occasional deliveries) Skills Experience leading and managing small team in a fast-paced kitchen setting (or similar) Knowledge of food safety regulations and handling practices. Familiarity with guidelines for safe food production. Strong understanding of sanitation procedures within a food processing environment. Mechanical aptitude for operating basic equipment used in food manufacturing and packaging. Ability to perform basic math calculations for inventory counting and measurement tasks. Experience with complex kitchen equipment is a bonus Excellent attention to detail to ensure compliance with safety standards and product quality. Excellent communication skills for teamwork and following and teaching instructions effectively in a fast-paced setting. Experience using commercial juicing equipment is a bonus and will lift your resume to the top If you love fresh food and beverage, thrive on organization and efficiency, and want mornings that are active and rewarding, we'd love to meet you! Join us in creating safe, high-quality food products while advancing your career in the vibrant food and beverage industry! We are committed to supporting your growth through comprehensive training and empowering you to excel as part of our dedicated team. To apply, please send your resume and a brief note about why this role interests you to info@zendonkeyfarms.com with the subject line "Juice Production & Operations Lead"

Job Types:

Full-time Benefits:

Employee discounts Opportunities for advancement Healthy lifestyle

Experience:

Kitchen production or similar : 3 years (Required) People leadership: 2 years (Required)

Language:

English (Required) Shift availability: Early mornings / day shift availability (Required) Most Saturdays April - October, occasional Saturdays in the winter months Ability to

Commute:

Lone Jack, MO 64070 (Required)

Work Location:

In person

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Pay:

$22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Paid training

Experience:

Kitchen:

3 years (Required)

Language:

English (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Lone Jack, MO 64070 (Required)

Work Location:

In person