What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Manager position at Cheesemakers, Inc.?
Operations & Quality Assurance Manager
SQF Practitioner | Preventative Control Qualified Individual (PCQI)
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7 AM until completion; On-call as needed
Position Overview:
The Operations & Quality Assurance Manager oversees company operations, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with food safety regulations. This role requires leadership in production, quality assurance, inventory control, and facility maintenance while ensuring compliance with SQF Level II and HACCP requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Quality Assurance & Compliance:
- Lead quality and safety programs, including HACCP, SQF, and GMP compliance.
- Prepare for and complete audits (Costco Small Manufacturer, SQF Level II).
- Maintain and update Food Safety and HACCP plans.
- Conduct mock recalls and quarterly internal audits.
- Train employees in quality assurance and safety practices in English and Spanish.
- Oversee supplier food safety assessments and maintain supplier registry files.
- Verify documentation and records for food safety, HACCP, and food defense.
- Ensure sanitation procedures align with SSOPs.
Operations & Inventory Management:
- Oversee production schedules and employee work hours.
- Manage shipping, receiving, and inventory control (FIFO, physical audits, defect tracking).
- Maintain production equipment and warehouse organization.
- Monitor and maintain refrigeration systems and facility maintenance.
- Supervise pest control and environmental safety measures.
Facility & Equipment Oversight:
- Ensure proper functioning of production room equipment, including metal detection and sealing machines.
- Manage maintenance of septic systems, water wells, and company vehicles.
- Oversee security, alarm systems, and temperature monitoring.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- 3–5 years of experience in food sanitation, production, quality, and maintenance.
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science or equivalent work experience.
- SQF Practitioner and HACCP certifications required.
- FSMA PCQI certification.
- Strong computer skills (MS Office Suite, Acctivate).
- Mechanically inclined with problem-solving ability.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to work in a 36°F environment and lift up to 75 lbs.
- Clean record, valid Texas driver’s license, and ability to pass drug/background checks.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Health insurance after 90 days.
- Paid vacation and sick time after one year.
- Closed-campus lunch policy.
This position requires dedication, adaptability, and leadership to ensure operational success. Employees start with a 90-day probationary period, with performance evaluations determining long-term employment and salary adjustments.
