Production Line Leader

Production Line Leader

Department: Managed Services

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Watsonville, CA

Reporting To: Co-Packing Production Manager

Compensation: $18.00 - $20.00 / hour

Reports To: Co-Packing Production Manager

Employment Type: Full-Time, Regular

Department: Food Business Development Program

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Location: El Pajaro CDC's Commercial Kitchen Incubator, Watsonville

Pay Rate: $18.00-$20.00 per hour

Mission Edge is proud to support El Pajaro Community Development Corporation in their recruitment efforts. This position is a direct hire for El Pajaro CDC, not Mission Edge. All employment, supervision, and reporting for this role will be with El Pajaro CDC.

The Production Line Leader is a hands-on supervisory role responsible for driving the performance, quality, and efficiency of a dedicated production line at El Pájaro CDC Co-packing. This role is the frontline leader that keeps operations running smoothly, directly guiding a team of line workers, upholding food safety and quality standards, and ensuring daily production targets are met on time. The ideal candidate leads by example, thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and takes ownership of their line from setup to shutdown.

As a key link between the production floor and management, the Production Line Leader plays a critical role in maintaining El Pájaro CDC's commitment to operational excellence and a high-performing team culture.

• Direct line workers' daily activities and monitor performance.
• Ensure the line is set up properly, clean, and functional.
• Perform in-process quality checks (weight, label, seal, etc.).
• Monitor equipment status and escape issues.
• Maintain accurate and timely paperwork (batch logs, labels, etc.).
• Lead by example by actively working alongside the production team.
• Ensure daily production goals are met while maintaining food safety and quality standards.
• Train and coach new employees on production procedures and company expectations.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to increase efficiency.
• Verify all materials, ingredients, labels, and packaging are correct before production begins.
• Ensure all line documentation is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
• Assist with changeovers, equipment cleaning, and end-of-day shutdown procedures.
• Communicate updates to the Production Manager.
• Enforce GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and ensure all team members are in compliance with food safety protocols at all times.
• Track and report line efficiency, downtime, and yield data to support continuous improvement efforts. Monitor attendance and punctuality of line staff and communicate concerns to the Production Manager.
• Participate in internal audits, mock recalls, or third-party inspections as needed.
• Ensure proper labeling, allergen controls, and lot traceability are maintained throughout production.

• 2+ years of food manufacturing or production experience preferred.
• California Food Handler Card/Certification required.
• Previous leadership or team lead experience preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable making decisions under pressure.
• Reliable, dependable, and punctual.
• Basic math skills for production counts, weights, and documentation.
• Comfortable using tablets, computers, or production paperwork.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules when production demands require.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, or SQF standards is a plus.
• Experience working in an SQF, BRC, or similarly certified food facility preferred.
• Basic understanding of allergen management and cross-contamination prevention.

Confidentiality Agreement – Required Upon Hire

Upon being hired, all team members are required to read and sign the El Pájaro CDC…