Operations Manager - Melting​/Food Manufacturing

Our Burlington County, NJ client, has retained Lumera Search to help them identify their Melting Operations Manager
. Our client is expanding its cocoa products melting operation. We are adding a liquor (paste) tank and a second shift. The Melting Operations Manager will run day-to-day operations on the ground across both shifts. This person makes sure the melting operation runs safely, efficiently, and on schedule. They lead the melting team, carry out the General Manager’s melting schedule, and make sure load outs happen on time and company policies and procedures are followed.

• Oversee daily melting operations across both shifts, carrying out the melting schedule set by the General Manager
• Lead, supervise, and develop the melting team, including the Night Shift Supervisor, Load-Out Coordinator, and QC & Melting Technician
• Plan staffing and assign work so labor is used efficiently on both shifts
• Supervise load-out activities so outbound shipments are staged and shipped on time
• Enforce company policies, standard operating procedures, and food safety and workplace safety requirements
• Support food safety and quality programs (SQF, HACCP, FDA/FSMA) in coordination with the Compliance Manager
• Direct the QC & Melting Technician in finding, prioritizing, and completing equipment repairs and preventive maintenance
• Watch tank levels, equipment performance, and production flow, and fix bottlenecks as they come up
• Keep shift handoffs and communication clear between day and night operations
• Make sure production, inventory, and shift records are accurate and complete
• Report operating issues, performance, and improvement opportunities to the General Manager
• Help bring the new liquor tank and the second shift online

• Proven management experience leading hourly teams in a large production, manufacturing, or warehouse operation
• Experience managing multi-shift operations or a comparable scale of workforce
• Strong scheduling, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to hold teams accountable to procedures and deadlines
• Clear communicator who can work well with management, maintenance, and shipping
• New Jersey Black Seal Boiler Operator License, or the ability to obtain it within 12 months of hire (continued employment depends on getting the license)

• Black Seal Boiler Operator License held at time of hire
• Experience in food manufacturing or food-grade warehousing
• Working knowledge of food safety programs (SQF, HACCP, FSMA, GMPs)
• Familiarity with melting, tank, or process equipment operations
• Experience with OSHA safety standards and workplace safety programs