Packaging Manager

Overview

We are seeking a dynamic Packaging Manager to lead a team of ~60 packaging professionals and engineers in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment. This highly visible leadership role oversees daily operations across multiple packaging lines (rigid, film, and foil), ensuring all products meet internal quality standards and customer expectations.

The Packaging Manager is responsible for driving production efficiency, developing the team, maintaining food safety and quality compliance, and supporting continuous improvement across the packaging department.

2nd shift

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all packaging operations across 3 shifts, ensuring safety, quality, productivity, and cost objectives are met.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of packaging supervisors, operators, and engineers.
• Oversee daily output of multiple packaging lines, ensuring adherence to product specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain authority to take immediate corrective action regarding Food Safety and Food Quality issues, escalating as appropriate.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering to optimize performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the department (Lean/Six Sigma, root cause analysis, TPM, Kaizen, etc.).
• Manage labor planning, capital equipment utilization, and packaging supplies.
• Champion a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• B.S./M.S. in Engineering, Science, Management, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive manufacturing experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role within packaging or production (preferably food or beverage).
• Experience with consumer goods packaging, filling lines, plastics, and case/pallet optimization tools (e.g., CAPE).
• Knowledge of food and dairy regulatory requirements preferred
• Strong management, planning, organizational, and follow-up skills.
• Excellent computer literacy and analytical problem-solving abilities.

Desired Skills & Experience

• Background in dairy or food plant operations preferred
• Experience with cultured product processing and packaging equipment.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to train, motivate, and develop teams.
• Membership in industry or professional organizations is a plus.

Benefits

• $0-premium, no-deductible employee-only health coverage
• 401(k) with 50% company match on the first 8% of contributions
• Safe harbor + profit-sharing contributions
• Company-paid short- and long-term disability
• Company-paid life and AD&D insurance (2× salary)
• 4 weeks of paid time off
• Additional paid volunteer time
• Tuition reimbursement
• Fitness membership reimbursement