Production Supervisor

Located in the Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building within the College of Agricultural Sciences, the Berkey Creamery is the largest and most sophisticated University affiliated dairy manufacturing plant in the country producing ice cream, fluid milk, cultured products, cheeses, etc.) for distribution to the University community. The Berkey Creamery at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking an experienced Production Supervisor to oversee production in the dairy processing plant. This is a hands-on position with supervisory and administrative duties and responsibilities. The successful candidate will lead a productive, dynamic team of unionized production, maintenance and distribution support staff in a vibrant and growing enterprise. Information about the Penn State Berkey Creamery is available at https://creamery.psu.edu/.

The incumbent must have the ability to advance over time with adequate training and mentoring into a managerial role including assumption of responsibilities in the following areas:

• report and analyze production metrics
• recommend and implement productivity improvements
• establish and document processes and procedures
• troubleshoot complex problems in a team-oriented environment
• participate as a key member of the Berkey Creamery Management Team

The position reports directly to the General Manager of the Berkey Creamery and will focus primarily on providing manufacturing and operations support to improve the overall operation.

The position may also support the business, sales and customer service needs of the Berkey Creamery as well as the educational mission of the Food Science Department and College of Agricultural Sciences.

Typically requires:

• Bachelor's degree or higher
• plus 2 years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience

The preferred candidate should have:

• B.S. degree or equivalent in Food Science, Dairy Science, Engineering, Business Management or related field
• relevant knowledge and experience in food and/or dairy manufacturing

Exceptional supervisory skills are essential including the ability to assign and monitor work, coach and develop staff as well as institute disciplinary action as warranted.

Experience in production planning/scheduling, inventory management, plant sanitation and product distribution are also highly desired.

Experience with the following are desired:

• food quality programs
• dairy processing systems and equipment
• food safety programs
• other related food manufacturing topics

Training will be provided to an individual who does not immediately possess these skills; but is willing to learn and grow within the position.

Strong communications skills are required for this position including one on one conversations and hosting small production team meetings.

Ability to functionally use a computer including basic command of Microsoft Office Suite is required.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.