Production Operations Manager – Meat ProcessingFull Time | Experienced | Exempt

Are you a hands-on leader passionate about food production, team development, and driving operational excellence? We’re looking for a Production Operations Manager to join a fast-paced, high-performing meat processing team. In this role, you’ll oversee a range of production areas including carcass flow, packaging, smokehouse operations, inventory management, and shipping/receiving. If you enjoy leading with purpose, collaborating across departments, and achieving results through people, we’d love to hear from you!

What You’ll Do

As the Production Operations Manager, you'll play a vital leadership role responsible for the efficiency, quality, and performance of daily plant operations. You'll:

• Lead all production activities with a focus on safety, food quality, and continuous improvement.

• Collaborate with procurement, sales, quality, and maintenance teams to meet operational goals.

• Build, coach, and support a high-performing team focused on accountability and success.

• Manage product flow from carcass to packaging, including smokehouse, inventory, and shipping.

• Drive compliance with GMPs, SOPs, and USDA guidelines.

• Support and engage your team through communication, training, and performance development.

• Maintain a customer-first mindset, working closely with the sales team to meet expectations.

What We’re Looking For

We value experience, leadership, and a desire to grow. You’ll thrive in this role if you bring:

Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree in business or related field with at least 5 years of relevant plant experience– OR –

• 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in a similar industry.

• At least 3 years managing budgets and reporting processes.

• 4+ years supervising and developing a team.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of USDA, FDA, HACCP, OSHA, GMPs.

• Experience in carcass breakdown, knife handling, and meat cutting processes.

• Working knowledge of smokehouse operations preferred.

• Solid understanding of business operations, inventory, and quality control.

• Ability to lead with integrity, solve problems, and motivate cross-functional teams.

• Excellent communication and people skills across all levels of the organization.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record.

• Ability to travel for training or team development.

• Willingness to work flexible or irregular hours as needed.

• Must pass a background check.

Benefits & Perks

We offer a competitive salary based on your experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO)

• 401(k) with company match

• Annual bonuses and cost of living adjustments

Ready to Make an Impact?If you're ready to lead a strong team in a meaningful, hands-on role that shapes the quality of our products and the future of our operations, apply now! Join a workplace that values tradition, innovation, and community—and where your leadership truly makes a difference.