Production Manager - Chemical, Food or Beverage

Production Manager – Chemical, Food or Beverage – Ottawa, Ohio area

Due to an internal move, an established, stable manufacturer is seeking a Production Manager to lead production and multiple facets of operations. This position reports to the Director of Operations and manages a team of direct and indirect reports.

• Direct all plant operations and lead a management team including Production, Maintenance, Warehouse, and Safety.
• Coordinate departmental schedules to ensure manufacturing goals are met safely, efficiently, and within budget.
• Partner with other facility leaders to share resources and support production supervision during peak operations.
• Lead facility and equipment improvements to reduce waste and boost productivity.
• Collaborate with the quality department to ensure all products meet internal specifications and food safety standards.
• Ensure the quality laboratory is fully equipped and personnel follow standard operating procedures.
• Maintain strict compliance with OSHA, FSMA, and HACCP plans.
• Serve on food safety committees and ensure a secure environment for all staff, vendors, and visitors.
• Coordinate labor requirements for labeling, packaging, and sanitation with warehouse and production teams.
• Regularly review expenditures with executive management to ensure fiscal alignment.
• Coach, mentor, and lead the team; take initiative and ownership of the plant.
• Support the busy season from July to November and maintain an average weekly effort of 50 hours (eligible for overtime payment).

• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED (post‑education highly preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in a similar production management role.
• Experience overseeing production in FDA packaging or chemical, food or beverage manufacturing, including a blending/mixing process.
• Experience overseeing production in non‑union work environments.
• Experience supervising a total of at least 30 employees, both direct and indirect.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

• ERP experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude or an engineering background.
• Experience with GMP, HACCP, SQF or PCQI.
• Ability and willingness to drive a forklift when needed.

• Competitive medical benefits.
• 401(k) match.
• Life insurance.
• Paid holidays and vacation.

Candidates are preferred to be local to the Ottawa, OH area; there is no relocation available at this time.