Manufacturing Operations Specialist

Job Summary

The Manufacturing Operations Specialist role is the primary support for production and production related processes. The role may also involve leading/participating in warehouse, maintenance and quality process improvements required to attain plant efficiency, quality, and safety objectives.

Job Responsibilities

• Safety:  Ensure all equipment systems meet Heartlands safety program standards, and industry best practices.  Conduct regular safety inspections, report hazards, and promote a culture of safety among team members.

• Key Responsibilities:

Support Daily Operations: Analyze daily manufacturing operations to ensure adherence to production schedules, quality standards, and safety protocols.

Evaluate Performance Metrics: Assess KPIs and KBIs to identify improvement opportunities and ensure budgetary goals are met.

Optimize Processes: Develop and refine manufacturing processes, workflows, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for enhanced efficiency.

Collaborate Across Teams: Work with engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain teams to resolve production issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Conduct Root Cause Analysis: Investigate operational problems and implement corrective and preventive actions.

Implement Lean and Six Sigma Practices: Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

Conduct Operational Assessments:  ensure inventory levels, equipment maintenance schedules, and production materials support efficient operations.

Improve Food safety and Quality: Ensure compliance with all food safety and quality standards, including FDA, company, and customer requirements, by implementing and maintaining Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles. Review operating procedures (SOPs) and internal policies for continuous improvement.  

Train and Support Staff: Provide training and support to manufacturing staff on new processes, equipment, and best practices.

• Innovation:  Stay current with emerging trends and advancement in equipment technologies, proactively identifying opportunities for improvement and innovation.  Foster a culture of innovation, teamwork, and accountability within the technical operations department to drive employee engagement and performance.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and a minimum of one year of work experience required, or a minimum of five years of progressive job experience including people, project, or account management with leadership and influencing skills required.
• In-depth knowledge of production processes, quality management systems, and regulatory requirements applicable to the industry.
• Proficiency in data analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making, with the ability to leverage technology and analytics tools to drive operational improvements.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of manufacturing environment and high-speed production equipment.
• Knowledge of TPM (Total Preventative Maintenance) processes, including 5S, Root-Cause Analysis, and continuous improvement practices preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; knowledge and ability to train on Methodologies of Breakdowns, Preventive Maintenance, Planned Maintenance, Break Down Analysis, Maintenance Prevention and Periodic Maintenance.