About the Company Hiring: Our client is a growing food manufacturer producing high-quality frozen food products and committed to operational excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

About the Job: We’re seeking a Director of Plant Operations / Plant Manager to lead all day-to-day operations within a fast-paced food manufacturing facility. This role oversees production, quality, maintenance, and safety while driving efficiency, team development, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who can balance strategic planning with floor-level engagement to ensure the plant meets quality, productivity, and profitability goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee production, maintenance, sanitation, and shipping to ensure timely and efficient operations.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, quality, and regulatory standards (USDA, HACCP, GMP, SQF).
• Lead and develop plant staff, fostering accountability, engagement, and safety.
• Monitor KPIs related to quality, yield, and waste; identify and implement process improvements.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and support company profitability objectives.
• Collaborate with company leadership on long-term production planning and operational strategy.
• Partner with vendors, suppliers, and regulatory agencies to ensure smooth operations.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• 6–10+ years of progressive leadership experience in food manufacturing or processing, ideally with frozen food exposure.
• Strong understanding of food safety programs and continuous improvement practices.
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with production and reporting systems; ERP experience preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish a plus.

Compensation: Salaried, $120,000–$130,000

Job Status: Direct Hire. Onsite in Chautauqua County, NY

Code: IND123