Production Operations Lead at Sterling Engineering Inc.

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionTitle: Production Operations LeadLocation: Columbia, SCHire Type: Direct-Hire, OnsiteCompensation: $130,000 - $145,000/year (plus bonus)Benefits: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical/Dental/Vision Plans, 401(k)Must-have Skill Set: Leadership experience in production processes, workflow planning, and operational controls.Job Summary:The Production Operations Lead oversees day-to-day manufacturing activities, including production, equipment support, and facility hygiene in a food processing facility. This role ensures consistent output, maintains workforce readiness, supports quality and safety standards, and drives process improvements across the plant.Job Duties:Manage production operations and support functions to ensure steady, compliant, high-quality output.Oversee manufacturing processes, methods, and procedures to maintain efficiency and accuracy.Partner with quality teams to resolve product issues and implement corrective actions.Maintain appropriate staffing levels, support training, and conduct performance evaluations.Promote positive employee relations through communication, engagement, and conflict resolution.Participate in leadership meetings, audits, and compliance reviews; execute corrective actions.Assist with investigations into product or process concerns and contribute to root-cause analysis.Ensure a safe, clean, and compliant work environment.Communicate operational updates and challenges to senior leadership.Support logistics coordination and provide accurate operational data for reporting and budgeting.Oversee small capital projects and assist with safety and environmental initiatives.Collaborate with technical resources to identify process gaps and implement best practices.Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in business, operations, or related field; or equivalent experience.Leadership experience in a manufacturing or production environment.Strong understanding of production processes, workflow planning, and operational controls.Familiarity with procurement, equipment, packaging, or logistics operations.Experience working in a regulated food or beverage manufacturing environment is a plus.Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.#infood