L4-Processing Lead

Job DetailsJob Location: DC6 DLine - Graham, NC 27253Salary Range: $20.00 HourlyJob Shift: 3rd ShiftPosition Summary The Processing Lead is responsible for overseeing daily processing operations within a dairy manufacturing facility. This position ensures products are manufactured safely, efficiently, and according to quality standards and production schedules. The Processing Lead provides leadership and direction to processing team members, monitors equipment and processes, and ensures compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Lead and support processing employees during daily production activities. Follow and verify batch sheets to ensure accurate ingredient additions and product formulations. Monitor processing equipment, temperatures, flow rates, pressures, and production parameters. Read and interpret production charts, process records, and quality documentation. Ensure all products meet established quality, food safety, and customer specifications. Coordinate with Quality, Maintenance, and Production teams to resolve processing issues. Train and mentor team members on standard operating procedures and safe work practices. Conduct routine equipment inspections and identify operational concerns. Maintain accurate production records, inventory usage, and processing documentation. Ensure compliance with GMPs, HACCP requirements, company policies, and safety procedures. Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions as necessary. Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and waste reduction. Maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards throughout the processing department. Communicate production updates, process changes, and operational concerns to management. QualificationsRequired Qualifications High School Diploma or GED required. Previous experience in dairy, food, beverage, or manufacturing operations preferred. Prior leadership or supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment preferred. Ability to read, understand, and follow batch sheets and production specifications. Ability to read charts, gauges, process data, and production records accurately. Basic computer skills and experience with manufacturing documentation systems. Strong communication, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Strong understanding of dairy processing operations and manufacturing processes. Working knowledge of chemicals used in dairy processing, sanitation systems, and CIP (Clean-In-Place) operations. Ability to safely handle chemicals and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDS), chemical concentrations, and safe usage procedures. Knowledge of food safety regulations, GMPs, HACCP principles, and quality standards. Strong attention to detail and ability to identify and correct process deviations. Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Ability to effectively lead, coach, and develop team members. Physical Requirements: Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry 50 pounds or more on a regular basis. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout a shift. Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and work on elevated platforms as required. Frequent bending, twisting, reaching, squatting, and kneeling. Ability to work in hot, cold, wet, and noisy manufacturing environments. Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE). Work Schedule: Must be available to work on a flexible schedule based on production needs. Must be willing and able to work up to six (6) days per week, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as required. Ability to work extended shifts, including 12-hour shifts, when necessary to support operations.