Operations Manager

POSITION SUMMARY:

Puyallup Chocolates is seeking a skilled Operations Manager to join our position will play a vital role in helping to develop the processes and procedures to help expand our business.

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily production and operational activities within the Puyallup Chocolates facility. This role ensures that manufacturing runs efficiently safely and in compliance with food safety and quality standards. The Operations Manager will lead teams across production maintenance and warehouse functions while driving continuous improvement in cost quality and delivery.

We are seeking employees who want to make an impact and be part of a rapidly growing and motivation are essential for our positions. This is a great opportunity to grow your career at a dynamic company where you will be foundational in growing both our business and great company culture.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Direct and manage daily plant operations including production scheduling quality control sanitation and maintenance
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) HACCP SQF/BRC and company policies
• Monitor KPIs (yield efficiency downtime waste and labor utilization) and implement corrective actions where needed
• Manage budgets for labor materials and overhead driving cost savings initiatives
• Oversee staffing training and performance management of production and operations teams
• Develop and maintain SOPs ensuring consistent execution across all operational areas
• Partner with Supply Chain Quality and R&D teams to meet production goals and new product launches
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs for all production equipment; coordinate equipment repairs to minimize downtime
• Plan for equipment upgrades and capital investment
• Develop and enforce workplace safety policies and procedures to ensure OSHA compliance
• Collaborate with QA to ensure facility readiness for regulatory third-party and customer audits
• Identify opportunities for improvements identify potential areas of risk and promptly share critical business information with key stakeholders to maximize results throughout Puyallup Chocolates
• Establish and maintain effective business relationships with all employees vendors business partners government/regulatory entities and communities in which we operate
• Strictly enforce workplace safety measures; safeguard the welfare of all employees guests visitors and business partners at all times; promptly report workplace risks incidents injuries and near misses; consistently wear and utilize all required PPE
• Maintain confidentiality regarding all sensitive and proprietary business information and safeguard Puyallup Chocolates assets at all times

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum

• BA/BS degree in related field
• 5 years of operations or plant management experience in food or beverage manufacturing
• Strong knowledge of food safety programs (HACCP SQF BRC FSMA OSHA)
• Proven leadership and team management skills in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and MS Office Suite
• Self-driven and ability to work effectively with minimal supervision
• Ability to make wise decisions using effectual mix of analysis experience and judgment.
• Strong data analysis skills with ability to translate complex data into sound business decisions
• Ability to problem solve multi-task and manage competing priorities to meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal written and verbal communication skills in English with focus on cross-functional collaborative teams
• No food-related allergies to milk eggs peanuts tree nuts wheat sesame and/or soy products
• Culturally sensitive and works well with the full diversity of our company and community
• Ability to work non-standard hours to accommodate business needs including nights weekends and holidays
• Uncompromising integrity and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Ability to pass background check

Preferred

• Any related industry certifications / credentials
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
• Experience with chocolate production
• Experience working with Tribal and/or Government
• Work experience in a dynamic fast paced and growing CPG company
• Experience with MSDBC

ABOUT PUYALLUP CHOCOLATES

The Puyallup Tribe of Indians known as the generous and welcoming people inspires the name and purpose of Puyallup Chocolates. Founded in the Tribes legacy of abundance and community we craft premium chocolates for you to enjoy and piece of Puyallup Chocolates reflects tradition inviting you to savor lifes moments and carry forward the spirit of raise our hands in gratitude and welcome you to the Puyallup Chocolates family. Tribal and Indian preference employer as required by law.

HOW TO APPLY:Submit an application online: Experience:

Manager