The Production Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all production and operational activities within the coffee roasting and powder blending facility. This includes managing roasting, grinding, blending, and packaging processes to ensure high-quality, consistent, and safe coffee and powder products. The role focuses on operational excellence, efficiency, and compliance with food safety and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities1. Production & Operations Management
Plan, organize, and supervise daily roasting, blending, and packaging operations.
Optimize production schedules to meet demand forecasts and delivery timelines.
Ensure efficient utilization of materials, labor, and equipment to maximize yield and minimize waste.
Oversee calibration and performance of roasting and blending machinery for consistency and quality.
Implement process improvements (Lean, 5S, Kaizen) to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.
2. Quality & Food Safety
Maintain full compliance with food safety and quality regulations including HACCP, SALSA, BRC and local health standards.
Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to ensure all coffee products meet flavor, aroma, and appearance specifications.
Monitor critical control points (e.g., roast profiles, blend ratios, moisture content, temperature control).
Lead investigations and corrective actions for any non-conformances or product deviations.
Ensure sanitation procedures and allergen controls are rigorously followed in blending and packaging areas.
3. Coffee Roasting & Blending Process Oversight
Manage green coffee intake, roasting profiles, cooling, grinding, and blending operations.
Maintain traceability from raw beans to finished product.
Work closely with product development and cupping teams to maintain consistency across batches.
Ensure powder blending processes (e.g., for instant coffee mixes or flavored products) meet formulation accuracy and homogeneity standards.
4. People Management
Lead, train, and mentor roasting, blending, and packaging teams to achieve production goals.
Schedule and manage staff shifts to align with production targets.
Promote a strong safety culture and teamwork across all departments.
Conduct performance reviews and identify skill development opportunities.
5. Inventory & Supply Chain Coordination
Manage raw material and packaging inventories to support uninterrupted production.
Coordinate with procurement and logistics for timely supply of green coffee beans, flavorings, and packaging materials.
Ensure accurate tracking and reporting of stock usage and yields.
6. Equipment Maintenance & Safety
Oversee preventive maintenance schedules for roasters, grinders, blenders, and packaging lines.
Ensure all equipment is operated safely and maintained according to manufacturer standards.
Coordinate with maintenance teams to minimize downtime and ensure reliability.
Uphold safety, environmental, and housekeeping standards throughout the plant.
7. Reporting & Continuous Improvement
Track and report KPIs including throughput, efficiency, downtime, yield, and waste.
Analyze data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
Participate in strategic planning and capital investment projects (e.g., new roasters or automation upgrades).
Support sustainability initiatives such as waste reduction and energy efficiency in roasting operations.
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Food Technology, Engineering, Business, or related field (Master's preferred).
Experience:
5-10 years in food or beverage manufacturing.
Certifications (Preferred):
HACCP, SQF Practitioner, Lean Manufacturing, BRC.
Skills:
Strong understanding of coffee roasting, grinding, and blending processes.
Knowledge of flavor development, moisture control, and shelf-life management.
Excellent leadership and communication skills.
Proficiency in production management software (e.g., ERP, MES, or similar).
Analytical mindset for troubleshooting and process optimization.
Commitment to food safety, quality, and sustainability.
Work Environment
Based in a production facility with regular exposure to heat, noise, and aroma from coffee roasting operations.
Requires adherence to safety and hygiene standards.
May require flexible working hours, including weekends, during peak production periods.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent