Assistant Plant Manager - Dairy Manufacturing

Our client is one of the biggest Dairy manufacturers and is a part of an established global group of companies which embrace a strong vision of developing innovative solutions to create healthier people and a healthier planet.

You will be responsible for assisting the Plant Manager with managing the day-to-day operations of a semi-commercial scale food manufacturing plant which will be scaled up significantly over time. Prior to the commencement of operations, you will assist with the final installation and commissioning aspects of the new plant. The role is both diverse and hands-on and the scope of responsibilities could range from troubleshooting operational issues, developing and implementing best practices and planning maintenance of plant and equipment.

A key focus of the role will be to provide direction and support to a small workforce of operators and assisting the Plant Manager to develop a highly skilled and versatile workforce.

• Assist the Plant Manager with monitoring plant performance for all products produced at the site
• Troubleshoot and problem solve day-to-day plant and process issues, as well as conducting investigations and coordinating responses to issues
• Provide technical direction and support to the production workforce, devise and implement operating procedures and deliver training
• Assist the Plant Manager with plant maintenance, including responding to plant breakdowns and preparing for planned maintenance work and coordinating the annual maintenance program
• Ensure Workplace Health & Safety and Environmental Management processes and compliance are followed and adhered to
• Develop and coordinate improvement projects and initiatives which enhance plant performance and improve workplace practices
• Assist with ensuring food safety and quality certification standards and objectives are adhered to and met

• Proven experience in assisting with managing the day-to-day operations of a production facility, including monitoring production performance and providing technical support
• Food or Dairy Manufacturing a must
• Effective troubleshooting skills, including the ability to resolve production and plant issues
• Proven ability to assist with planning and coordinating plant maintenance
• Effective leadership skills, including the ability to provide technical direction and support to a production workforce, as well as coordinating and delivering training
• Up to date knowledge and ability to ensure Workplace Health, Safety & Environmental processes are in place and being adhered to
• Well-developed verbal and written communication skills, ranging from the ability to deliver instructions during a toolbox talk to preparing reports on production performance or an improvement project