Plant Manager (Meat Processing)

Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Plant Manager to oversee the end-to-end operations of our meat processing facility. This individual will be responsible for production management, food safety compliance, process optimization, and workforce leadership. The facility specializes in meat production and has a pending halal certification. The Plant Manager will lead a team of 3-5 direct reports and a total workforce of 50 or fewer employees while ensuring regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and cost control.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plant Operations & Production Management

• Oversee daily production processes to ensure efficiency, quality, and adherence to food safety regulations.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles to optimize production workflows and minimize waste.
• Maintain and improve meat processing techniques, ensuring consistency and compliance with industry standards.
• Manage and coordinate equipment maintenance and repairs to avoid downtime and enhance productivity.
• Monitor and adjust staffing levels to meet production goals efficiently.

2. Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with USDA, FDA, OSHA, and HACCP food safety standards.
• Lead the halal certification process, ensuring all practices align with certification requirements.
• Develop, implement, and maintain Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Coordinate and oversee third-party audits, internal inspections, and regulatory assessments.
• Foster a culture of food safety and quality assurance among all employees.

3. Team Leadership & Workforce Management

• Directly manage 3-5 direct reports
• Recruit, train, and develop plant staff, ensuring high engagement and productivity.
• Conduct performance evaluations, training programs, and safety workshops to enhance employee skill sets.
• Promote a safe and inclusive work environment, enforcing OSHA regulations and best practices.

4. Cost Control & Financial Management

• Develop and manage the plant's budget, cost structures, and expense control measures.
• Implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety.
• Optimize raw material procurement, inventory levels, and supplier negotiations.
• Monitor KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to assess financial performance and production efficiency.

5. Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization

• Identify opportunities for efficiency improvements, leveraging automation and new technologies where feasible.
• Implement Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing methodologies to streamline operations.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging innovation and accountability among the team.

6. Cross-Functional Coordination & Stakeholder Management

• Collaborate with senior management, sales teams, supply chain partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Work closely with suppliers, logistics providers, and distributors to ensure seamless product flow.
• Provide regular reports and insights on plant performance, production capacity, and strategic improvements.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 8-12 years of experience in food manufacturing, with at least 5 years in meat processing.
• 3-5 years of managerial experience, overseeing plant operations, production, or food safety compliance.
• Experience in halal-certified or other specialized food processing environments is a plus.

Certifications

• HACCP Certification (Required).
• SQF Practitioner, PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual), or similar food safety certification (Preferred).
• OSHA Safety Training Certification (Preferred).
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Certification (Preferred but not required).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of meat processing operations, cold storage requirements, and quality control.
• Expertise in USDA, FDA, OSHA, and halal food production regulations.
• Proficiency in inventory management, procurement, and cost optimization.
• Ability to manage cross-functional teams and train employees effectively.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, ERP Systems, and manufacturing software.

Work Environment & Schedule:

• Location: 30 minutes outside South Bend, Indiana.
• Schedule: Full-time, on-site role with availability for emergency calls or urgent plant issues.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for long periods, lift moderate weights, and work in cold environments (refrigerated processing areas) as needed.
• Travel Requirements: Occasional travel for training, supplier visits, or corporate meetings.

Compensation Package:

• Competitive salary based on experience, with bonus potential and benefits.