Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Puyallup Chocolates is seeking a skilled Operations Manager to join our team. This position will play a vital role in helping to develop the processes and procedures to help expand our business.

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily production and operational activities within the Puyallup Chocolates facility. This role ensures that manufacturing runs efficiently, safely, and in compliance with food safety and quality standards. The Operations Manager will lead teams across production, maintenance, and warehouse functions while driving continuous improvement in cost, quality, and delivery.

We are seeking employees who want to make an impact and be part of a rapidly growing company. Initiative and motivation are essential for our positions. This is a great opportunity to grow your career at a dynamic company, where you will be foundational in growing both our business and great company culture.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage daily plant operations, including production scheduling, quality control, sanitation, and maintenance
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP, SQF/BRC, and company policies
• Monitor KPIs (yield, efficiency, downtime, waste, and labor utilization) and implement corrective actions where needed
• Manage budgets for labor, materials, and overhead, driving cost savings initiatives
• Oversee staffing, training, and performance management of production and operations teams
• Develop and maintain SOPs, ensuring consistent execution across all operational areas
• Partner with Supply Chain, Quality, and R&D teams to meet production goals and new product launches
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs for all production equipment; coordinate equipment repairs to minimize downtime
• Plan for equipment upgrades and capital investment
• Develop and enforce workplace safety policies and procedures to ensure OSHA compliance
• Collaborate with QA to ensure facility readiness for regulatory, third-party, and customer audits
• Identify opportunities for improvements, identify potential areas of risk, and promptly share critical business information with key stakeholders to maximize results throughout Puyallup Chocolates
• Establish and maintain effective business relationships with all employees, vendors, business partners, government/regulatory entities, and communities in which we operate
• Strictly enforce workplace safety measures; safeguard the welfare of all employees, guests, visitors, and business partners at all times; promptly report workplace risks, incidents, injuries, and near misses; consistently wear and utilize all required PPE
• Maintain confidentiality regarding all sensitive and proprietary business information and safeguard Puyallup Chocolates assets at all times

Requirements

Minimum

• BA/BS in related field or equivalent
• 5+ years of operations or plant management experience in food or beverage manufacturing
• Strong knowledge of food safety programs (HACCP, SQF, BRC, FSMA, OSHA)
• Proven leadership and team management skills in a manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and MS Office Suite
• Self-driven and ability to work effectively with minimal supervision
• Ability to make wise decisions using effectual mix of analysis, experience, and judgment
• Strong data analysis skills with ability to translate complex data into sound business decisions
• Ability to problem solve, multi-task, and manage competing priorities to meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills in English, with focus on cross-functional collaborative teams
• No food-related allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, sesame, and/or soy products
• Culturally sensitive and works well with the full diversity of our company and community
• Ability to work non-standard hours to accommodate business needs, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Uncompromising integrity and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Ability to pass background check

Preferred

• Any related industry certifications / credentials

• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification

• Experience with chocolate production
• Experience working with Tribal and/or Government
• Work experience in a dynamic, fast paced and growing CPG company
• Experience with MSDBC

About Puyallup Chocolates

The Puyallup Tribe of Indians, known as the generous and welcoming people, inspires the name and purpose of Puyallup Chocolates. Founded in the Tribe's legacy of abundance and community, we craft premium chocolates for you to enjoy and share. Each piece of Puyallup Chocolates reflects tradition, inviting you to savor life's moments and carry forward the spirit of generosity. We raise our hands in gratitude and welcome you to the Puyallup Chocolates family. Tribal and Indian preference employer as required by law.