Packaging Lead (2nd Shift)

About the Role

Performs a wide variety of duties to assist in maintaining department efficiencies at maximum output levels. Works with supervisor and supports all assigned team members and equipment requirements during respective shift. While performing the duties, the lead is required to spend 85% of time on the floor. Line leaders guide the workflow and productivity of the line operators to ensure operators have everything required to meet daily customer order production requirements. The role involves improving line productivity and efficiency by creating processes that focus on quality and minimizing waste, training new operators, and holding operators accountable to company standards.

Responsibilities

• Follow and commit to meet Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for safety, quality, production, efficiency, and service requirements.
• Follow practices and processes intended to provide safe products that comply with appropriate laws and regulations, meeting company quality standards.
• Follow and commit to safety and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).
• Assist in start-up, shut down, checking, and troubleshooting of lines as necessary; conduct quality checks, correct deficiencies, and initiate quality audits.
• Coordinate with the supervisor to review and maintain production schedules to ensure resources are available to meet schedule.
• Audit the floor as required by Leader Standard Work, monitor productivity metrics, verify adherence to procedures and standard work, correct deficiencies, and escalate to supervisor as necessary.
• Communicate with oncoming shifts about any problems or issues that are occurring.
• Notify supervisor immediately and recommend solutions if there are issues that will prevent achievement of efficiency goals.
• Actively support Operational Excellence and effectively participate in lean initiatives and problem-solving.
• Ensure operators remain motivated, engaged, and maintain the highest safety protocols.
• Keep records and record data on inventory management, order tracking, and the supply of materials.
• Support production schedule compliance and attainment; identify issues and opportunities for improvement; report issues to Department Supervisor.
• Coordinate with Department Supervisor to provide feedback and coaching to team members as appropriate.
• Monitor, observe, and recommend changes to department work procedures to ensure department objectives are met.
• Implement and conduct training when operating procedures change and on an annual basis, as required by the training plan.
• With QA, Safety, and others as appropriate, assist in execution of action plans related to health and safety and assure the highest levels of compliance.
• Serve on cross-functional teams to provide input and take action on special projects, as assigned.
• Conduct and document inspections and audits as required in the assigned areas.

Requirements

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
• 1+ years of manufacturing experience and lead/supervisory experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous work experience in a fast-paced environment, preferably in the food industry.
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn inventory control programs.
• Prior training experience.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.

Skills

• Self-starter able to conceptualize and drive initiatives forward.
• Positive attitude and motivated by contributing to the overall success of the team.
• Able to develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable moving at a fast pace and in ambiguous environments.
• Passionate about food.

As a Leader Within the Team, You Are Expected To:

• Model and support Kettle’s Core Values and safety culture.
• Create a culture of accountability & performance.
• Drive a focus on quality and continuous improvement.
• Plan work, track results, and resolve variances.

Level of Responsibility

Works with little supervision, but work is reviewed. Exercises discretion within areas of responsibility. Recommends actions and alternatives to supervisor and others. Position has little to no contact with customers. Makes indirect contribution to efforts that generate moderate levels of revenue. Decisions or actions may have a moderate impact on other departments and/or external relationships of the organization. Errors are usually detected after the fact and may result in moderate interruption and delays in work output.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability (low cost or no cost).
• 401K Contribution & Company Match.
• PTO Accrual.
• WA State Sick Leave (40 Hours Annual Accrual).
• 9 Paid Holidays.
• Employee Referral Program.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• ORCA Transportation Program.
• Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave.

Schedule

Must be willing to work all shifts, weekends, and some holidays.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Physical Demands/Efforts

• Extensive walking and standing.
• Repetitive motion (hands/wrists).
• Climb and balance.
• Occasional physical exertion, including lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

Mental & Visual Demands

• Moderate concentration to effectively execute moderately complex tasks.
• Occasional visual effort for periods of time.

Work Environment and Hazards

• Manufacturing setting with some exposure to heat, cold, dust, or other factors of minor inconvenience.
• Some exposure to hazards that might cause minor injury.
• Less than 25% travel required (to other sites via airplane).