Operations Manager at The James Skinner LLC – Omaha, Nebraska

Position Summary:

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading and managing manufacturing operations to ensure the safe, efficient, and high-quality production of baked goods. This role oversees production safety, quality, planning, team performance, and continuous improvement initiatives to meet company goals and customer expectations. The Operations Manager plays a key role in coordinating cross-functional teams, driving productivity, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and food safety standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day, week-to-week bakery production and operations, including mixing, baking, packaging, and facility support.
• Ensure production schedules are met while maintaining safety, product quality, and cost-efficiency.
• Lead and manage production supervisors and line staff, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Monitor KPIs and operational metrics (e.g., yield, throughput, downtime, labor efficiency) to drive performance improvements.
• Implement and uphold a culture of food safety championing programs (HACCP, GMP, SQF) and support quality assurance initiatives.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain, Maintenance, Sanitation, and Quality departments to ensure seamless workflow.
• Identify operational bottlenecks and lead problem-solving initiatives using lean manufacturing and root cause analysis tools.
• Manage staffing levels, training, performance reviews, and corrective actions.
• Promote and enforce a safe work environment, ensuring compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.
• Participate in budget planning and cost-control efforts related to labor, materials, and production efficiency.

Skills, Experience, and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Food Science, Industrial Engineering, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of experience in operations or production management, preferably in food or bakery manufacturing.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, food safety regulations, and quality control systems.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficient in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Primarily day-shift with visible on-floor presence across shifts including weekends
• Bilingual in English/Spanish is a plus.

Physical Environments:

Normal office environment but will work in plant. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals—including allergen ingredients such as wheat, soy, dairy, nuts and eggs. Must be able to walk, stand, crawl, lift and bend continuously while supporting factory operations.