Job Title: Production Manager (Mechanical Background - Food Industry) Job Purpose To manage and coordinate food production processes, leveraging mechanical expertise to ensure equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and compliance with food safety regulations.
Key Responsibilities Production Oversight: Plan, organize, and supervise daily food manufacturing operations to meet output and quality targets.
Mechanical Expertise: Inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot production machinery to minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.
Quality & Safety: Enforce strict adherence to food safety standards (HACCP, ISO, BRC regulations) and workplace safety protocols.
Process Improvement: Implement lean manufacturing practices, reduce waste, and optimize production efficiency.
Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and supervise production staff, ensuring effective performance and motivation.
Collaboration: Work closely with procurement, logistics, and R&D teams to align production with supply chain and product development needs.
Reporting: Prepare production reports, analyze performance data, and present findings to senior management.
Skills & Qualifications Education: Mechanical Engineering, Food Technology, or Industrial Engineering.
Experience: 5+ years in food manufacturing, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
Technical Skills: Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, automation, and preventive maintenance in food production.
Leadership Skills: Ability to manage diverse teams and resolve conflicts.
Analytical Skills: Proficiency in production planning software and data analysis.
Comparison of Mechanical vs General Food Production Manager Aspect Mechanical Background Focus General Food Production Manager Equipment Oversight Advanced troubleshooting, preventive maintenance Basic monitoring & coordination Process Efficiency Lean manufacturing, automation integration Scheduling & workflow management Safety & Compliance Machinery safety + food safety Food safety & hygiene Staff Management Training on equipment use General staff supervision Reporting Technical + operational metrics Operational performance only Challenges Balancing mechanical maintenance with production deadlines.
Ensuring regulatory compliance while introducing new machinery or processes.
Managing cross-functional teams in a high-pressure environment.