ASSISTANT PLANT MANAGER

Are you ready to join a SIX-TIME US Best Managed Company? KENT Worldwide, a family of companies committed to excellence and innovation? We are seeking a highly organized and results-driven Assistant Plant Manager to oversee daily operations at our manufacturing facility. This role is responsible for ensuring efficient production processes, maintaining high-quality standards, and leading a team including Production Supervisors to meet production goals in a safe and cost-effective manner.

• This is a salaried position with a complete benefit package reporting to the Plant Manager.
• The compensation range for this role is $110,000 to $140,000, in addition to KENT standard benefits (health, dental, vision, 401k). Final compensation is subject to variation based on the candidates skills, job responsibilities, location and other pertinent factors.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of the production process, ensuring timely and accurate execution of production schedules.
• Supervise and support Production and Sanitation Supervisors and their teams. Provide coaching, performance feedback, and development opportunities to ensure high team performance and morale.
• Collaborate with Quality teams to ensure all products meet company and regulatory standards for safety, quality, and consistency.
• Identify and implement lean manufacturing process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and lower production costs.
• Maintain accurate production records, generate performance reports, and participate in audits and inspections.
• Monitor raw material usage and coordinate with procurement to ensure adequate inventory levels without overstocking.
• Coordinate plant shutdowns in coordination with maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, GMP's and other applicable regulatory bodies.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies and trends in operations management.
• Assist with recruiting, selecting and onboarding new department members.
• Identify training needs and ensure proper development and delivery.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in food science, Engineering, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of experience in food or beverage manufacturing, preferably in dry blending or powder-based production
• Proven leadership and team management skills, including experience managing Production Supervisors
• Strong knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and food safety regulations
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Proficient in Microsoft AX, D365, or comparable ERP systems, as well as Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.