Operations Manager

Operations Manager - Ready to EatLocation: Franklin Park, ILCompensation: $130,000 - $160,000 + Bonus: Up to 15%, paid quarterly (based on education and experience)Why This Role Stands OutLead a high-output meat processing and high-speed packaging operation with three direct reports and 80+ employeesRelocation assistance available for candidates outside the Chicagoland areaWork for an established food manufacturer with a growing and well-known product portfolioDirect access to a tenured Director of Operations who provides strong leadership supportMetrics-driven culture using KPI scorecards and Red Zone production management systemsAbout the RoleThis is a leadership role at a large-scale, RTE-regulated meat processing facility focused on USDA products. You will oversee multiple production lines across a 200,000 square foot facility, spending time on the floor leading through presence, accountability, and clear expectations rather than from behind a desk.This role requires someone who can present to CEO-level leadership, understand production financials, drive KPIs, and build a team culture rooted in accountability and respect. If you have a strong background in USDA ready-to-eat meat manufacturing and want a high-visibility leadership role with real earning potential, this is worth a serious look.ResponsibilitiesOversee all daily production operations across multiple meat processing and packaging lines in a USDA-regulated, ready-to-eat manufacturing environmentManage and develop production supervisors and a workforce of employeesDrive KPI performance across yield, schedule attainment, and labor efficiencyUse Red Zone or similar production management systems to monitor real-time floor performanceEnsure compliance with USDA, OSHA, and all applicable food safety and regulatory requirementsPartner with HR on hiring, corrective action, employee development, and labor relationsMonitor production costs, labor utilization, and budget adherenceLead short and long-term planning efforts in alignment with the Director of OperationsMaintain a strong floor presence and build a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvementCollaborate cross-functionally with quality, maintenance, and scheduling teamsRequirementsBachelor's degree is preferred, ideally in Engineering, Animal Science, Operations / leadership or related education5+ years of experience in a USDA-regulated, ready-to-eat meat processing environmentProven leadership presence with the ability to communicate clearly at all levels including executive leadershipStrong working knowledge of production KPIs, OEEs, labor metrics, and yield managementExperience with Red Zone or comparable production management systems preferredComfortable and effective in a union manufacturing environmentBilingual English and Spanish a plusProficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP preferredReady to Apply?This is a well-supported role with a strong team, clear expectations, and real upside for the right leader. If you have the USDA meat processing background and the leadership presence to match, we want to hear from you. Apply now and let's connect.

Created: 2026-05-09