What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Lead position at Cold Hollow Cider Mill?
Fresh Cider Production Lead
Location: Cold Hollow Cider Mill – Waterbury Center, VT
Position Type: Full-Time
Join Our Team at Cold Hollow Cider Mill!
Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a Vermont institution dedicated to producing high-quality fresh cider using traditional methods. We're seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to take on a leadership role in our cider production operations. The Fresh Cider Production Lead will work hands-on with the team to ensure smooth operations, maintain food safety standards, and contribute to a clean, efficient, and positive work environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead daily production of fresh cider and cider jelly using traditional rack and cloth press methods.
- Assign tasks, delegate responsibilities, and ensure daily production volumes and quality standards are met.
- Operate a forklift to safely transport bins and raw materials.
- Oversee apple receiving and tracking, including bin movement logs and apple variety identification.
- Maintain accurate production and food safety documentation in accordance with HACCP and USDA/FSIS requirements.
- Coordinate with management on scheduling, inventory, and maintenance needs.
- Oversee and document post-sanitation inspections and ensure compliance with sanitation standards.
- Support training of new staff and ensure compliance with all SOPs, GMPs, and safety protocols.
- Identify operational inefficiencies and participate in problem-solving and continuous improvement efforts.
- Maintain inventory of production materials and communicate supply needs in advance.
- Oversee quality assurance in upholding BRC/SQF food safety standards.
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs. regularly.
- Ability to be on your feet for extended periods of time.
- Comfortable working in cold, wet production environments with frequent lifting and movement.
Qualifications:
- 3 years of experience in food production or food service required.
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience.
- Experience operating production machinery and forklifts (certification preferred).
- Proven experience in a factory or manufacturing environment is required
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Working knowledge of HACCP, GMP, food safety, and sanitation standards.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to troubleshoot and perform minor maintenance on equipment.
- Computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Schedule:
Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Flexibility required during peak season (September–December)
Benefits:
- Healthcare, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Matching
- Paid Time Off
- Life Insurance
- Free Lunch Daily
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) 6% Match
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Supplemental Pay:
- Overtime pay
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22 - $24