Operations General Foreman

The **Food Manufacturing General Foreman**will oversee the daily operations of the food production floor and supervise a team of workers to ensure efficient, safe, and quality-driven manufacturing processes. The General Foreman plays a critical role in maintaining production schedules, ensuring adherence to safety regulations, and managing a team to meet production targets. The position requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of food production processes and industry standards.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Supervision & Leadership**:
Direct and oversee the work of operators, technicians, and production workers.
Ensure that all employees follow the company’s policies, food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, SQF), and work instructions.
Train, develop, and mentor team members to enhance their skills and productivity.
Conduct performance reviews, providing feedback and coaching for continuous improvement.
- **Production Management**:
Oversee daily production activities, ensuring that production goals and timelines are met.
Monitor production progress and resolve issues to prevent delays or bottlenecks.
Collaborate with the Production Manager to adjust schedules, staffing, and resources to meet demand.
Ensure raw materials and ingredients are available, and inventory levels are optimized.
- **Quality Control & Safety**:
Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations, including maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards within the production area.
Inspect product quality at various stages of production, ensuring the final product meets the required specifications.
Address any issues related to product quality or safety and take corrective actions as needed.
Enforce and adhere to health and safety regulations, making sure all workers follow safety protocols to prevent accidents or injuries.
- **Equipment Maintenance**:
Coordinate with the maintenance team to ensure equipment is properly maintained and functioning.
Monitor machinery for malfunctions and take immediate action to reduce downtime.
Ensure preventative maintenance schedules are followed to maintain production efficiency.
- **Reporting & Documentation**:
Maintain accurate records related to production, employee performance, and safety compliance.
Report production data, such as output, downtime, and any issues, to upper management.
Ensure that all necessary documentation is up-to-date and meets regulatory requirements.
- **Continuous Improvement**:
Identify areas for improvement in production efficiency, cost reduction, and safety practices.
Work with management to implement process improvements and operational changes.
Encourage team members to suggest ideas for increasing productivity and improving the work environment.

**Requirements**:
**Education & Experience**:

- **High School Diploma or GED**(required).
- **Associate’s Degree**or higher in Food Science, Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
- Minimum **5 years**of experience in a food manufacturing environment, with at least **2 years in a supervisory or foreman role**.
- Knowledge of food production processes and equipment is a must.

**Skills & Competencies**:

- **Leadership Skills**: Proven experience in leading, managing, and motivating a team in a fast-paced environment.
- **Problem-Solving Abilities**: Ability to address operational or quality issues swiftly and effectively.
- **Communication Skills**: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively direct the team, interact with management, and document reports.
- **Knowledge of Food Safety**: In-depth knowledge of food safety standards, such as HACCP, GMP, SQF, and OSHA regulations.
- **Time Management**: Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize tasks based on urgency.
- **Attention to Detail**: Precision in overseeing production processes and ensuring product quality and safety.
- **Technical Skills**: Familiarity with food production machinery and troubleshooting.

**Physical Requirements**:

- Ability to stand for extended periods, walk, and lift up to **50 lbs**.
- Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment, which may involve exposure to varying temperatures and noise levels.
- Ability to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, or overtime as needed.

**Preferred Qualifications**:

- Experience with **Lean Manufacturing**or **Six Sigma**principles.
- Certification in **Food Safety**or related quality certifications.
- Previous experience working with **automated production systems**or **processing machinery**in the food industry.