Specialty Cheese Production Supervisor
Lena, IL
Permanent
Specialty Cheese Production Supervisor
Location: Stephenson County IL
Type: Direct Hire
Schedule: 1st & 2nd Shift
Position Summary:
The Specialty Cheese Production Supervisor oversees daily cheese production operations. This is a hands-on leadership role; responsible for supervising staff, managing pasteurization and cheesemaking processes, ensuring food safety compliance, and driving operational efficiency. The position combines technical dairy processing expertise with strong team leadership and performance management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide production and processing oversight by supervising and supporting cheese production staff during pasteurization, culture development, and finished product manufacturing.
- Oversee goat milk heat treatment, culture and rennet additions, and monitor pH and moisture trends.
- Adjust production processes based on fat content, specifications, and quality standards.
- Ensure accurate sampling and testing (pH, moisture) and proper documentation of results.
- Coordinate production schedules to ensure timely start-ups and efficient shift execution
Quality, Safety & Compliance:
- Enforce GMPs, food safety standards, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Maintain inspection-ready conditions and ensure proper sanitation practices, including CIP cycles and full equipment cleaning.
- Monitor KPIs related to safety, quality, productivity, labor, and waste reduction.
Leadership & Continuous Improvement:
- Lead, train, and develop production team members to meet performance and quality goals.
- Manage timekeeping, attendance, and performance documentation.
- Partner with Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to resolve production challenges.
- Identify and implement process improvements to reduce downtime and improve OEE.
- Support new product trials and special projects.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
- 3–5+ years of supervisory or lead experience in manufacturing; dairy or food production.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of pasteurization and cheese production processes.
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality systems.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with ERP or OEE systems preferred.
- Ability to lift up to 50–70 lbs and work in an active production environment.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact our Monroe office at jobs@careerpros.com or give us a call at 608-325-5100.
Sedona Staffing is an Equal Opportunity Employer
