Department Lead

Description:

Navarro Pecan Company (Navarro) is searching for a DepartmentLead in Corsicana, TX. The Department Lead will ensure that production requirements are met while maintaining a safe, efficient, and compliant operation. This front-line role will involve responding to unplanned events, working independently, and making technical decisions to support the reliable and efficient functioning of the facility. The position requires critical thinking to solve problems and the ability to train new operators. Flexibility is essential, as the Department Lead may need to work various shifts, including overtime and weekends, alongside their team. This role reports to the Shift Supervisor.

Navarro is a privately held company and has been in business since 1977. Navarro has been a leading manufacturer of shelled pecans in North America and has recently undergone a major capital expansion to transform our manufacturing process into the most modern, automated operation we are aware of in the pecan industry. Navarro supplies nearly every aspect of the pecan market, but is one of the largest global nut suppliers to the bakery, snack, ice cream, confectionary and cereal industry markets. Navarro has implemented and maintained SQF Certification for Food Safety and Quality since 2011.

What You'll Do:

• Supervision & Leadership:
  • Team Management: Oversee a team of workers during your shift, ensuring theyre adhering to safety guidelines and working efficiently.
  • Training & Development: Train new employees and provide ongoing support for existing staff. Ensuring everyone knows how to operate machinery properly and follow procedures.
  • Shift Coverage: Make sure all roles and responsibilities are covered, including any adjustments for absences or shift changes.
• Operations Management:
  • Process Oversight: Ensure that the shelling process runs smoothly and that machines are operating correctly (e.g., sanitizers, crackers, shelling machines, sorting equipment, etc.).
  • Problem Solving: Troubleshoot any equipment or operational issues that arise during the shift and report any major issues to maintenance and/or management.
  • Efficiency: Monitor productivity levels and make adjustments as needed to meet production goals and deadlines.
• Quality Control:
  • Product Quality: Monitor the quality of the shelled pecans and ensure that they meet company standards (e.g., moisture, size, damage-free).
  • Sorting & Grading: Ensure that pecans are correctly sorted and graded, according to customer specifications or quality standards.
  • Final Inspections: Conduct final checks on products before they are sent for packaging or shipping.
• Safety & Compliance:
  • Safety Protocols: Ensure all safety procedures are followed by the team. This includes using protective equipment (gloves, goggles, etc.), proper handling of machinery, and adherence to plant safety standards.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure operations follow industry standards, such as FDA regulations, food safety, and health codes.
  • Incident Management: Be the first point of contact in case of an accident or safety violation. Ensure that issues are addressed immediately and reported to upper management.
• Communication & Reporting:
  • Shift Handover: Communicate effectively with the next shift lead to ensure a smooth transition and update them on ongoing issues or production numbers.
  • Reporting: Maintain detailed logs of shift activities, including production counts, quality issues, safety concerns, and employee performance. Report any issues to higher management.
  • Coordination with Other Teams: Collaborate with maintenance, and quality control teams to ensure the overall flow of operations.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
  • Machine Maintenance: Perform routine checks on machines, and ensure minor repairs or adjustments are made as needed to prevent downtime.
  • Troubleshoot Issues: Address machine malfunctions or breakdowns promptly to minimize disruption to the production line. Contact maintenance promptly with issue outside of your skillset.
• Productivity & Efficiency Metrics:
  • Production Goals: Ensure production targets are met or exceeded by motivating the team, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing solutions.
  • Waste Reduction: Minimize waste by overseeing efficient use of raw materials and ensuring that shells and other by-products are properly handled or recycled.
• Employee Relations:
  • Conflict Resolution: Address any interpersonal conflicts or issues among employees in a professional and fair manner.
  • Motivation: Help maintain high morale and motivation within the team by recognizing good performance and addressing concerns.
• Skills and Qualifications:
  • Leadership Skills: Strong communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution abilities.
  • Technical Knowledge: Understanding of plant operations, machinery, and production processes.
  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Capable of thinking on your feet and solving problems quickly, especially when it comes to machinery breakdowns or quality issues.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to work on your feet for extended periods and lift or move heavy objects as necessary.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensuring product quality, safety compliance, and meeting production targets requires attention to detail.

Qualifications:

• Self-starter who is comfortable working independently, effectively manages multiple tasks and achieves results with minimal supervision.
• Dynamic and driven, demonstrating a strong work ethic. Possesses unwavering integrity and trustworthiness, with a character that embodies our company values
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of production experience with 1+ year of supervisory experience

• Proven ability to balance and achieve positive outcomes in safety, quality, productivity, cost management, and employee relations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong sense of empathy.
• Capable of managing multiple priorities and performing effectively under pressure.
• Collaborative team player who actively supports and enhances team dynamics.
• In-depth knowledge of production processes, quality control, cost management, and techniques to optimize product manufacturing.
• Ability to learn Navarro specific computer programs.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior food manufacturing experience
• Knowledge of Food Safety Requirements
• Knowledge of SQF Codes
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish

Work Environment:

• Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, squat 8 to 12 hours a day
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds
• Must be able to wear all necessary safety equipment
• Must be willing to work on manufacturing production floor
• Ability to work overtime and weekends if necessary
• Ability to climb stairs and/or ladders

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly rate
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Employee only health is fully covered by Navarro
• Retirement plan options
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and growth