Spirits Bottling Production Lead

Are you the coach who turns data into results?

Do you watch OEE like a hawk, dive into root causes, and rally a team to safer, faster, better? At Buffalo Trace Distillery (Sazerac), we’re looking for a production leader to command bottling lines, elevate performance, and deliver defect-free products—every shift, every time.

Your challenge

On your line, a minor jam threatens throughput. You pull the right people together—Maintenance, QA, and operators—review the trend data in your ERP dashboard, isolate the issue, and implement a corrective action that sticks. Downtime drops, yields improve, and the schedule holds. That’s a good day here.

What success looks like

• Daily production targets met with unwavering safety and quality.
• Real-time decisions guided by performance metrics—OEE, downtime, yields, and throughput.
• Flawless changeovers and start-ups that keep new items and packaging changes on track.
• Cross-functional collaboration with Maintenance, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Engineering to resolve issues quickly and permanently.
• GMP execution, sanitized equipment, accurate documentation, and readiness for audits and inspections.

Lead the team

• Set expectations, coach operators, and build engagement through recognition and clear feedback.
• Partner with HR to manage staffing, time/attendance, performance reviews, and corrective actions.
• Promote an inclusive, positive culture where safety is non-negotiable.

Safety and compliance first

• Enforce OSHA and company policies; run toolbox talks, routine safety audits, and incident investigations.
• Meet all regulatory and quality standards: OSHA, FDA, TTB, and internal food safety programs.

Must-haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Food Science, or related field.
• Strong communication skills and ease working across all levels.
• Proven ability to prioritize, problem-solve, and manage time in fast-paced operations.
• Exposure to manufacturing/production via coursework, internship, or related experience.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Microsoft Office proficiency; ERP/production software familiarity a plus.

Nice-to-haves

• Internship, co-op, or project experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain.
• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or CI toolkit exposure.
• Experience with food/beverage production, packaging, or QC standards.
• Knowledge of OSHA, FDA, TTB compliance.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and an interest in supervising teams.

Physical realities of the job

• Lift up to 50 lbs without assistance.
• Work an 8-hour shift and occasional overtime.
• Operate in loud, wet, humid areas near moving mechanical equipment.
• Maintain a sharp eye for detail and product integrity.

Benefits that start when you do

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits on Day One.
• 401(k) with immediate company match.
• Flexible time off, holidays, and parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement and scholarship programs.
• Wellness initiatives and mental health support.
• Branded gear, team events, and an employee bottle purchase program.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities.

Schedule and compensation

• Open shifts: 2nd (2:30pm–11:00pm) and 3rd (10:30pm–7:00am)
• Salary range: $70,687 - $106,031. Placement within the salary range is calculated based upon years of directly relatable experience for the position.

Diversity & Equal Opportunity

Sazerac is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status.

Core proficiencies

• Leadership / People Management
• Bachelor's Degree
• Continuous Improvement
• Supervisory Experience