Production Line Leader

This position is a direct hire for El Pajaro CDC, not Mission Edge. All employment, supervision, and reporting for this role will be with El Pajaro CDC, a non-profit organization supporting disadvantaged entrepreneurs through business advising, training, and co-packing services in Watsonville, CA.

About the role

The Production Line Leader is a hands-on supervisory role responsible for driving the performance, quality, and efficiency of a dedicated production line at El Pájaro CDC Co-packing. This frontline leader keeps operations running smoothly by directly guiding a team of line workers, upholding food safety and quality standards, and ensuring daily production targets are met on time. The ideal candidate leads by example, thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and takes ownership of their line from setup to shutdown. As a key link between the production floor and management, the Production Line Leader plays a critical role in maintaining El Pájaro CDC's commitment to operational excellence and a high-performing team culture.

Responsibilities

• Direct line workers' daily activities and monitor performance.
• Ensure the line is set up properly, clean, and functional.
• Perform in-process quality checks (weight, label, seal, etc.).
• Monitor equipment status and escalate issues.
• Maintain accurate and timely paperwork (batch logs, labels, etc.).
• Lead by example by actively working alongside the production team.
• Ensure daily production goals are met while maintaining food safety and quality standards.
• Train and coach new employees on production procedures and company expectations.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to increase efficiency.
• Verify all materials, ingredients, labels, and packaging are correct before production begins.
• Ensure all line documentation is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
• Assist with changeovers, equipment cleaning, and end-of-day shutdown procedures.
• Communicate updates to the Production Manager.
• Enforce GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and ensure all team members comply with food safety protocols.
• Track and report line efficiency, downtime, and yield data to support continuous improvement efforts.
• Monitor attendance and punctuality of line staff and communicate concerns to the Production Manager.
• Participate in internal audits, mock recalls, or third-party inspections as needed.
• Ensure proper labeling, allergen controls, and lot traceability are maintained throughout production.

Requirements

• 2+ years of food manufacturing or production experience preferred.
• Previous leadership or team lead experience preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable making decisions under pressure.
• Reliable, dependable, and punctual.
• Basic math skills for production counts, weights, and documentation.
• Comfortable using tablets, computers, or production paperwork.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules when production demands require.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, or SQF standards is a plus.
• Experience working in an SQF, BRC, or similarly certified food facility preferred.
• Basic understanding of allergen management and cross-contamination prevention.

Confidentiality Agreement

Upon being hired, all team members are required to read and sign the El Pájaro CDC Co-packing Confidentiality Agreement. As part of the co-packing operation, you may have access to proprietary recipes, formulations, and production information belonging to El Pájaro CDC or its clients. By signing the agreement, you commit to:

• Keeping all recipes, formulas, and production processes strictly confidential.
• Using confidential information only to perform your assigned duties.
• Returning or destroying all confidential materials upon request.
• Reporting any suspected unauthorized disclosure to your supervisor immediately.

These obligations remain in effect during and after employment. Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information may result in disciplinary action and/or legal liability.

Pay

$18.00–$20.00 per hour.

Schedule

Full-time, regular position. Willingness to work flexible schedules when production demands require.