Production Manager

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Production Manager is responsible for improving and optimizing Lafeber Company's manufacturing operations. This role focuses on increasing production efficiency, reducing waste, and building scalable systems through hands-on leadership and data-driven decision making. The primary objective is to make the plant better every month by improving processes, increasing throughput, and strengthening operational systems. The ideal candidate is curious, hands-on, and energized by solving problems on the production floor. They think in systems, challenge inefficiencies, and take ownership of outcomes. A successful candidate will possess a fundamental love of animals, be kind of heart, focus on delivering exceptional quality, operate with the utmost integrity, and always strive to make our customers happy.

Salary:

$75,000 , with potential flexibility for highly qualified candidates based on experience, education, and demonstrated skill level.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Plan, direct, and coordinate day-to-day manufacturing operations Ensure production targets, quality standards, and shipping commitments are consistently met Manage raw material and finished goods inventory to support production needs Coordinate production scheduling to meet customer demand Operational Performance & Metrics Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) including (but not limited to): Product Quality Production throughput Labor productivity Analyze operational data to identify improvement opportunities Implement corrective actions to improve operational performance Continuous Improvement Apply structured problem-solving tools such as Root Cause Analysis Develop and implement systems that improve productivity, reduce waste, and increase capacity Identify equipment upgrades, maintenance strategies, and automation opportunities Quality, Food Safety & Compliance Ensure manufacturing operations support company quality and food safety standards Maintain audit readiness for regulatory and customer inspections including:

FSMA OSHA

Food safety programs Sanitation programs Collaborate closely with the Quality Department on GMP programs, SOPs, and corrective actions Team Development Lead, train, and develop production teams Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability and continuous improvement Address employee concerns and maintain a positive work environment Identify hiring and training needs

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Proven experience managing manufacturing operations and production teams Strong understanding of manufacturing metrics such as OEE and throughput Experience implementing continuous improvement programs

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

3+ years of leadership experience in food manufacturing or related industry Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Food Science, Manufacturing, or related field Experience in regulated food and/or animal feed manufacturing environments Knowledge of food safety regulations and audit systems Experience working with ERP systems Strong analytical and data interpretation skills Experience scaling manufacturing operations

KEY COMPETENCIES

Hands-on leadership style Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and team leadership Ability to manage multiple operational priorities Continuous improvement mindset

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

Naturally curious and driven to improve how things work Thinks in systems rather than isolated tasks Comfortable challenging the status quo Strong sense of ownership and accountability High integrity and team-oriented mindset Passion for quality and continuous improvement

WHAT SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE WILL LOOK LIKE

Measurable improvement in product quality and reduced waste Reduced downtime and reduced production variability Written programs standardizing our work Training program for each department and each line

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role operates in a manufacturing facility environment and may require working in conditions with dust, noise, temperature fluctuations, and active machinery.

Pay:

$75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person