Analysis Skills, Continuous Improvement, Dairy Science, Demand Forecasting/Planning, Establish Priorities, Fermentation, Food Production, Food Safety, Food Science, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), Industry Standards, Leadership, Lean Manufacturing, Maintain Compliance, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Operations, Metrics, Operational Improvement, Operations, Performance Analysis, Performance Management, Process Improvement, Production Control, Production Management, Production Planning, Production Systems, Regulations, Root Cause Analysis, Safety Compliance, Supply Chain, Team Lead/Manager
Job Description
Job Title: Production Manager - Cheese
Job Location (Short): Darlington Wisconsin, WI, USA, 53530
Discipline: Operations & Manufacturing
Career Site Contract Hours: 40+
Apply now
Job Description Header:
We are seeking an experienced Production Manager - Cheese to oversee end-to-end cheese manufacturing operations. This role ensures safe production, consistent product quality, and efficient operational performance while fostering a strong culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Job Description:
The Production Manager - Cheese is responsible for leading daily production activities, optimizing processes, and ensuring compliance with food safety and environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily cheese production operations including milk intake, pasteurization, curd formation, pressing, and aging.
- Ensure compliance with EHS, GMP, and food safety standards while promoting a strong safety culture.
- Monitor and adjust production plans to meet demand and customer requirements.
- Analyze production metrics such as yield, downtime, and efficiency to drive performance improvements.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives including lean manufacturing and root cause analysis.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives including lean manufacturing and root cause analysis.
- Collaborate with Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams to align production priorities.
- Optimize production output, throughput, and overall operational efficiency.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum of 6 years of leadership experience in dairy or food manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of cheese production processes including fermentation, curd handling, moisture control, and aging.
- Understanding of GMPs, food safety regulations, and industry standards.
- Experience with large-scale production and automated systems preferred.
Work Environment
- Fast-paced manufacturing and office environment following GMP standards.
- Exposure to chemicals, allergens, enzymes, and moderate-to-high noise levels.
- PPE required including safety footwear, gloves, eye protection, and lab coat.
Job Description Footer:
The Production Manager - Cheese will lead a team of production staff and supervisors, ensuring strong engagement, accountability, and performance.
Team Leadership & Culture
- Lead, train, and develop production team members and supervisors.
- Assign work, set priorities, and monitor team performance.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Manage staffing, recruitment, and performance management processes.
Ways of Working
- Act with respect, integrity, and inclusiveness.
- Drive for excellence and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate effectively and contribute to shared team success.
Apply now
Recruiter: Molly Nelson
Recruiter email: Molly.Nelson@frieslandcampina.com
Career Site Show Contact Details Recruiter: Yes
Why work with us:
An inspiring purpose
Better nutrition for the world and a good living for our farmers, now and for generations to come.
A cooperative culture
Driven by global collaboration, respect, and shared success
A tangible impact
Space to aim higher, with autonomy and a clear focus
Your growth fuels ours
We invest in your personal and professional development through training and education.
Do you have any questions?
Please contact our recruiter
careers@frieslandcampina.com