Production Manager in Arden, North Carolina at ARCADIA FARMS LLC

As Production Manager at Arcadia Beverage, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of production (Filling/Packaging) operations within a fast-paced beverage manufacturing environment. This role requires a hands-on leader with strong problem-solving abilities, a deep understanding of manufacturing operations, beverage production processes, SQF and food safety compliance, and a passion for driving operational excellence through accountability, leadership, and continuous improvement.

The Production Manager will lead and support two production shifts while collaborating cross-functionally with Quality, Mixing, Maintenance, Warehouse, Planning, and Engineering teams to ensure safe, efficient, and consistent operations. This position is responsible for achieving production targets, maximizing OEE and labor efficiency, reducing waste and downtime, maintaining product quality standards, and ensuring customer commitments are met through effective execution of the production schedule.

This individual will play a key leadership role in developing frontline supervisors and operators, building a culture centered around safety, communication, accountability, and operational discipline. The Production Manager will also be responsible for monitoring KPIs, driving process improvements, supporting staffing and labor planning, overseeing changeovers and sanitation activities, and ensuring compliance with GMPs, FDA regulations, SQF standards, and all company safety policies.

Success in this role requires the ability to lead in a high-volume manufacturing environment, make real-time operational decisions, manage multiple priorities across two shifts, and continuously identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, quality, and overall plant performance.

What We Do:

Arcadia is a people-first organization. We exist to care for each other through our actions and values, and to share that with everyone we encounter.

Arcadia Beverage has over 80 years of beverage co-packing experience and we are a pasteurized cold fill scale contract packager of non-alcoholic / non-carbonated beverages for major retailers and food service distributors.

Our Core Values:

• Care Deeply
• Respect & Support the Whole Person
• Grow & Learn Everyday
• Celebrate & Have Fun
• Do What We Say We’re Going to Do

What You’ll Do:

• Manage and coordinate all production (filling / Packaging) activities, ensuring that production schedules are adhered to, production targets are met or exceeded, set production KPI’s
• Monitor and improve changeover efficiency, startup/shutdown procedures, and sanitation/CIP processes to maximize uptime.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on waste reduction, labor optimization, process efficiency, and cost savings.
• Coordinate with Supply Chain, Planning, and Warehouse teams to ensure production sequencing and shipping priorities are maintained.
• Analyze production trends and operational data to identify opportunities for improvement and long-term operational strategy development.
• Manage the production schedule for 5 lines while maintaining communication with mixing to ensure product readiness.
• Ensure the highest level of product quality by closely monitoring production processes, conducting regular inspections, and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Uphold strict safety standards and practices, providing ongoing training to production personnel, and fostering a safety-first culture.
• Oversee raw material and finished goods inventory levels to prevent shortages or excesses.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the shift team members, promoting a positive work environment.
• Identify areas for process optimization, cost reduction, and efficiency enhancement
• Ensure continuous improvement of
• Collaborate with maintenance personnel to ensure equipment is well-maintained, and breakdowns are minimized.
• Maintain effective communication channels with other shifts, departments, and management to ensure smooth handover of information and tasks
• Ensure safety, quality, and food safety by following company rules and standards, enforcing the requirements, and communicating violations or concerns to the leadership team.

What We’re Looking For:

• Demonstrated ability to communicate, coach and mentor, embracing a learning and development team-based environment, regardless of role.
• Self-starter with strong prioritization and finishing skills; comfort in change as a state of being.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (preferred) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in a supervisory or managerial role within a beverage manufacturing facility or related industry.
• Ability to develop and implement SOPs, work instructions, and standardized operational procedures.
• Strong understanding of beverage production processes, filling operations, sanitation practices, equipment functionality, and industry best practices.
• Strong understanding of beverage production processes, equipment, and industry best practices.
• Demonstrated leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire others.
• Strong knowledge of production scheduling, labor planning, and workforce management within a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with OSHA safety standards, GMPs, HACCP, SQF/BRC standards, FDA regulations, and food safety compliance requirements.
• Experience supporting customer audits, regulatory inspections, and internal quality audits.
• Familiarity with safety protocols, quality standards, and regulatory compliance in the food and beverage industry.
• Proficient in using computer software for production tracking, inventory management, and reporting.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays, as required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects, and work in a factory environment with exposure to various temperatures and noise levels.
• Must be able to stand, kneel, and lift/move up to 50 pounds.

The Perks:

• PTO & Holidays
• 401(K) plan available with employer match
• Comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Company-funded Direct Primary Care
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Professional development opportunities

The Interview Process:

• Initial phone screen
• Virtual Interview with the Hiring Manager
• On site interview to tour the facility and meet the team
• Offer

Ready to Join Us?

If you're ready to lead with passion and innovation in the dynamic world of beverages, we can't wait to meet you and see how you can make a significant impact at Arcadia Beverage! Apply now to be part of our refreshing journey.

https://www.arcadiabev.com/careers