Leaf Processing Shift Manager

At JTI, we celebrate differences and foster an inclusive environment where everyone can build their unique success story. With 46,000 people worldwide, 83% of employees feel happy working at JTI. Bring your human best and make a difference with us.

About the role

This role is responsible for leading shift operations within the leaf processing facility, covering key areas such as feeding, threshing, redrying, and packing. The focus is on ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant processing of tobacco leaf while maintaining product quality and operational reliability. Responsibilities include oversight of equipment performance, coordination with maintenance, and effective team management to align with JTI standards, EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) requirements, and operational guidelines. The role contributes to building a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement across the shop floor.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily shift operations across all processing areas, ensuring activities run in line with defined standards, production targets, and quality requirements. Coordinate with Technical Quality to support performance monitoring and consistency.
• Oversee equipment reliability through regular inspections, maintenance coordination, and timely follow-up. Ensure accurate data entry in systems such as Leaf Point to maintain traceability and compliance.
• Manage feeding operations by controlling raw material inputs, maintaining correct blending ratios, and monitoring key parameters such as moisture and temperature. Identify deviations early and make timely decisions to protect product standards.
• Lead threshing activities to ensure product specifications are met, including proper control of process parameters and effective removal of non-tobacco related material (NTRM). Coordinate with operators and maintenance to support stable equipment performance.
• Support redrying operations by monitoring dryer performance and silo management, ensuring products meet required moisture and temperature targets. Validate samples regularly and align with Technical Quality to maintain process stability.
• Supervise packing activities, including presses, strappers, and by-product lines. Ensure correct execution of instructions, proper weight control, and accurate system transactions. Maintain housekeeping standards, monitor non-shippable product (NSP) ratios, and manage re-feeds efficiently.
• Maintain product quality and process control by monitoring key parameters, identifying deviations, and applying corrective actions. Support contamination prevention standards and adjust machine settings as required.
• Lead and develop the team by setting clear expectations, reinforcing accountability, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Provide coaching, feedback, and on-the-job training, including systems such as Leaf Point and structured operational routines.
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying losses, applying structured problem-solving methods such as 5 Whys, and supporting daily management routines. Contribute to building standards and improving how work is executed on the shop floor.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate Degree in a related field preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of manufacturing experience (preferably tobacco), including 5 years in a supervisory role.
• Proficient in English (written and spoken).
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and tobacco leaf characteristics.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Knowledge of Leaf Point and QIMS; proficiency in MS Office.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, collaborate effectively across teams, and demonstrate strong attention to detail, quality focus, and a willingness to learn.

Skills

A professional who takes ownership of shift operations and brings structure and consistency to the shop floor. Comfortable working close to the process, able to identify deviations early and make practical decisions. Strong team leadership is key, with the ability to set expectations, hold people accountable, and support capability building. An organized and detail-oriented approach is important, along with a focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Annual Performance-based Bonus
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Personal Development Programs
• Medical, Dental & Vision Plan for employees & family members
• Life insurance
• Matching 401(K)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Family Leave (up to 20 weeks)
• Education/Tuition Assistance
• Volunteering Activities
• Employee Assistance Program (counseling for employees & family members)

Location: Danville | Reporting to: Leaf Processing Manager | Contact: Alfredo Laferte, Talent Attraction Expert