Senior Plant Operations Manager - Food & Beverage Manufacturing Leadership

Location: Modesto, California | Compensation: $120,000-$155,000 + 15% Annual Bonus + 9% 401(k) Match | Full Relocation Package

Position Overview

A market-leading Food & Beverage manufacturer seeks an accomplished Plant Operations Manager for our flagship facility. This high-visibility role offers an accelerated path to Plant Manager for an exceptional leader who can drive operational excellence and team performance.

Essential Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize daily production operations for a facility of up to 1,000 employees
• Directly manage 150-300 team members with two direct reports
• Spearhead continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing practices
• Drive operational KPIs, efficiency metrics, and quality standards
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with business objectives
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Quality, Maintenance, HR, and CI teams
• Manage production budgets and resource allocation effectively

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Engineering, or related field
• 7+ years of progressive experience in Food, Beverage, Pharmaceutical, or CPG manufacturing
• Proven leadership experience managing large teams (400+ employee environment)
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish
• Strong background in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies
• Experience in union environment preferred
• Demonstrated success in implementing operational excellence programs

Why Join Us

• Clear advancement path to Plant Manager role
• Industry-leading benefits package including 9% 401(k) match
• Comprehensive relocation assistance
• Strong company culture focused on employee development
• Stable, growing organization with excellent internal promotion track record

About Modesto, California

Modesto offers an exceptional quality of life with a perfect blend of urban amenities and rural charm. Located in California's Central Valley, residents enjoy a mediterranean climate, affordable housing, excellent schools, and easy access to both San Francisco and Yosemite National Park.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're an experienced manufacturing leader ready to accelerate your career with a respected industry leader, we want to hear from you. Submit your application today to join our dynamic team.

Keywords

Manufacturing Leadership, Plant Operations, Food and Beverage, Production Management, Operational Excellence, Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Team Leadership, Plant Manager, Operations Director, Manufacturing Executive, Production Supervisor, Industrial Management, Supply Chain, Process Improvement, Six Sigma, KPI Management, Quality Control, Food Safety, GMP, HACCP, TPM, OEE, Operational Efficiency