Essential Functions and Role:
This is an entry-level "hands-on" Operations Manager role. Meeting USDA, HACCP, GMPF, and Company standards, and under the supervision of the Assistant/Plant Manager, the functions of this role are to:
- Manage associate safety, production, quality, yields, efficiencies, attendance, payroll, hiring, discipline, work rules, USDA procedures, training, paperwork, communication, and product safety.
- Lead the team by identifying goals for the department and aligning them with the overall goals and direction of Michigan Turkey Producers.
- Build, coach, and lead a high-performing team that works together to accomplish objectives and overcome challenges, while supporting and reflecting MTP’s core values.
- Drive a culture of accountability and ownership by reinforcing expectations and following up on results.
- Implement and sustain continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance engagement.
- Monitor and respond to real-time performance data (yields, BPM, downtime) and escalate concerns proactively.
- Ensure proper shift handoff communication to maintain continuity and prevent disruption to production, safety, or quality standards.
- Support preventative maintenance by coordinating with the Maintenance team and helping to identify recurring equipment issues.
- Ensure that all associates understand and follow company policy and safety procedures.
- Provide proper onboarding and ongoing training to associates.
- Follow up daily to ensure equipment and employee performance meets expectations.
- Maintain efficiencies at or above standard.
- Meet daily production schedules and staffing requirements.
- Maintain the annual budget and assist with cost-control initiatives.
- Maintain and organize accurate records of production, downtime, payroll, and other key data.
- Manage standard operating procedures and ensure adherence.
- Ensure product quality and food safety through proper NPIS/HACCP execution.
- Supervise associates and promote a respectful, safe work environment.
- Conduct regular associate meetings and daily floor communication.
- Partner with QA, Food Safety, Human Resources, and USDA to ensure compliance and resolve issues timely.
- Operate under OSHA & MIOSHA safety standards and rules, including proper PPE usage and LOTO practices.
- Support product trials, equipment evaluations, and process changes, providing feedback on performance, labor, and product impact.
- Utilize system tools and data collection software to track performance, identify trends, and support decision-making.
- Lead by example, promote MTP values, and foster a positive and communicative work culture.
- Perform other tasks as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Must be able and follow all the rules and procedures established by the HACCP program.
- Must have good attention to detail.
- Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand the English language.
- Must be able to work safely.
- Must be able to work in a team environment.
- Must be able to manage the designated number of associates within the assigned area.
- Must be able to have a good working relationship with hourly workers, USDA and Management members.
- Must be knowledgeable in the processes of the assigned area.
- Proven ability to think strategically and apply creativity to achieve practical solutions
- Proficient communicator both written and orally.
- Proficient computer skills utilizing Microsoft programs including Excel.
- Must be able to and must wear necessary Personal Protective Equipment required while performing role:
- Protective Eye Wear
- Ear plugs
- Hard Hat
- Hair Net
- Protective Coat (clothing protector)
- Forearm protection
- Plastics gloves
- Cotton gloves
- Plastic aprons
Physical Qualifications:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a manager to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Must be able to physically perform the essential functions of the role as outlined.
- Must be able to obtain a powered industrial truck (PIT) permit.
- Must be able to manually operate a knife.
- Must be able to manually operate and have familiarity of automative equipment.
- Must be able to operate and use office machines and equipment.
- Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
- Repetitive use of fingers, hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders daily.
- Must be able to sit, bend, reach, and stand for 8 hours or the duration of the shift, in a wet, cold environment.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. from the floor or pull up to 50 lbs. using proper lifting techniques.