Operations Manager – Protein Processing & Packaging

Location: West Chicago, IL Compensation: $130,000–$160,000 base + quarterly bonus up to 15%

Overview

A well-established ready-to-eat protein manufacturer is adding an Operations Manager to lead a large-scale, USDA-regulated processing and packaging facility. This is a floor-based leadership role — not a corporate or office-heavy position. The person in this seat will oversee multiple production lines, manage a sizeable hourly workforce, and be held accountable to clear performance metrics.

The operation is structured, metrics-driven, and supported by experienced leadership above. There is a strong foundation in place — what's needed is someone who can step in, earn credibility on the floor, and drive results through presence and accountability.

What the Role Covers

·       Direct daily production across multiple processing and packaging lines in a USDA-regulated, ready-to-eat environment

·       Lead three direct reports and a workforce of 80+ hourly employees

·       Own KPI performance across yield, schedule attainment, and labor efficiency

·       Use Red Zone or comparable systems to monitor and manage real-time production activity

·       Ensure full compliance with USDA, OSHA, and applicable food safety regulations

·       Manage production costs, labor utilization, and budget accountability

·       Partner with HR on staffing, corrective action, and employee development

·       Collaborate with quality, maintenance, and scheduling to keep lines running efficiently

·       Present performance updates and operational plans to senior and executive leadership

·       Lead short and long-term planning in coordination with the Director of Operations

·       Build a floor culture rooted in safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

What They Need

·       BS/BA in Engineering, Animal Science, Operations, or a related field is preferred, or an equivalent of 10+ years of meat processing leadership experience is required

·       2-5+ years of leadership experience inside a USDA-regulated, ready-to-eat meat processing facility

·       Strong floor presence with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels including executive leadership

·       Solid understanding of production KPIs, OEEs, yield management, and labor metrics

·       Experience with Red Zone or similar production management platforms preferred

·       Comfortable leading in a union manufacturing environment

·       Bilingual English and Spanish is a plus

·       Proficient in Microsoft Office and ERP systems preferred