Oakridge Dairy is seeking a Creamery Operations Manager to oversee daily creamery operations and providing support to production managers, quality assurance personnel, plant operators, and warehouse operators. The Operations Manager drives progress at Oakridge Creamery through data evaluation and the implementation of innovative concepts. Ideally, this candidates comes with experience in scaling and lean processing operations improvement.
About Us:
Oakridge Diary's growing creamery just launched a new product called "Moozy," the first ever fresh milk in a can. The dairy is a progressive, majority family-owned dairy operation based in Ellington, Connecticut, dedicated to producing high-quality A2A2 milk. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement, Oakridge Dairy operates with a forward-thinking mindset-investing in people, and modern agricultural practices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee all daily creamery operations, including 9 employees on a tradition glass production line and a new milk in a can line.
- Manage plant processing, warehouse, production planning, quality control, maintenance, and safety.
- Evaluate operational data and implement improvements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and up-scale operations.
- Research and implement new processes, equipment, automation, and operational improvements.
- Assess and approve capital expenditures, equipment purchases, and operational invoices and optimize cost of production.
- Develop, communicate, and maintain SOPs, protocols, and roles/responsibilities.
- Lead regular meetings with production teams, management, and individuals.
- Serve as a key member of the leadership team, helping guide the company’s big-picture strategy and direction.
Qualifications:
- Prior experience in food production or dairy processing preferred
- Strong commitment to maintaining high standards of product quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
- Proven leadership and managerial skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
- Proven experience in lean operations and up-scaling plant operations.
- Strong problem-solving abilities with experience analyzing complex issues and implementing effective solutions.
- Strategic mindset with the ability to develop and execute plans aligned with company goals.
- Willingness to work in a hands-on environment, including lifting heavy objects and standing for extended periods.
What We Offer:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401K and PTO.
- Potential for career development within a growing company.
