Operations Supervisor

The Operations Supervisor at Shearer's in Waterford is primarily responsible for leading employees in a manufacturing environment, ensuring the achievement of safety, quality, and productivity goals. The supervisor directs plant floor activities, enforces safety practices, and promotes positive employee relations. Additionally, tracking performance metrics and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance operations are vital aspects of this role.

To qualify for the Operations Supervisor position at Shearer's, candidates are preferred to have a four-year degree in a related business or technical field, along with 2-5 years of experience in a production lead or supervision role, ideally in the food processing industry. In certain cases, relevant work experience may substitute the educational requirements.

The Operations Supervisor at Shearer's places great emphasis on maintaining a safe work environment by enforcing safety and sanitation rules. This includes conducting regular safety audits and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements, creating a culture of safety that empowers employees to prioritize their well-being and that of their colleagues.

Shearer's offers its Operations Supervisors a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan with a match, short-term and long-term disability benefits, and opportunities for community volunteer involvement. This extensive benefits offering reflects Shearer's commitment to employee wellness and satisfaction.

The Operations Supervisor position at Shearer's in Waterford operates on the afternoon shift, starting from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. This schedule allows the supervisor to oversee the production processes effectively during peak operation hours, ensuring a seamless workflow.

As an Operations Supervisor, my leadership style centers around empowerment and collaboration. I believe in actively engaging with my team, providing support while allowing them the freedom to innovate and take ownership of their tasks. This approach creates a more motivated workforce which is essential in a fast-paced environment like Shearer's.

Safety is my top priority, and I implement this by establishing clear safety protocols and conducting regular training sessions. I ensure that every team member understands the importance of safety practices and encourages open communication regarding safety concerns to foster a culture of safety.

In resolving conflicts between team members, I focus on open dialogue. I would first listen to both parties' perspectives to fully understand the issue and facilitate a mediation session if necessary. My goal is to guide them toward a solution that reinforces a collaborative team environment.

To drive productivity, I set clear goals and regularly review performance metrics. I utilize data to identify areas for improvement and ensure that my team has the necessary resources and training to meet these objectives. Recognizing individual contributions also helps to motivate the team.

In a previous role, I implemented a lean manufacturing technique that streamlined our packaging process, reducing waste and improving efficiency by 20%. By analyzing the workflow and involving team feedback, we developed a more effective system that benefited the entire operation.

I ensure compliance by maintaining thorough documentation and implementing regular audits to check adherence to both federal and state regulations. I also focus on continuous training for my team, ensuring they are aware of the latest compliance requirements and standards.

Fostering team engagement starts with building relationships and open communication. I initiate regular team meetings where feedback is encouraged, and I celebrate achievements, big and small to create a sense of belonging and motivation among team members.

Effective communication in manufacturing is crucial. I ensure that there's a clear structure for information flow, whether through briefings or digital tools. My approach encourages sharing updates and challenges regularly, helping everyone remain aligned toward our common goals.

Handling underperformance involves identifying the root cause and addressing it through supportive measures. I believe in providing constructive feedback and additional training if needed, while setting achievable goals that help guide the employee toward improvement.

I am drawn to Shearer's because of its commitment to quality and innovation in the snack industry. I admire the company's focus on sustainability and continuous improvement, aligning perfectly with my values, and I look forward to contributing to its success while growing professionally within the organization.