Smokehouse Sanitation Manager

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary 

Lead critical food safety, sanitation, and operational performance initiatives as a Smokehouse Sanitation Manager. In this role, you will oversee smokehouse and sanitation operations while leading and developing a high-performing team dedicated to safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement. You will collaborate closely with production, quality, maintenance, and support teams to ensure effective communication across shifts, drive operational excellence, and maintain the highest standards of food safety and sanitation. This position is ideal for a results-driven leader who excels at developing talent, fostering associate engagement, and building a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Through strong leadership and cross-functional partnership, you will play a vital role in supporting operational success and creating an exceptional workplace for associates. 

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities 

• Hire, train, lead, and support 3rd shift smokehouse and sanitation associates in achieving daily and weekly requirements. 

• Support workforce planning, training, and succession development to build a strong and skilled staffing pipeline. 

• Mentor and coach team members to enhance skills and improve performance. 

• Manage performance, learning, and development of teams. 

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and engaged team culture aligned with company values and leadership behaviors. 

• Promote associate growth, engagement, and retention. 

• Develop, implement, and sustain safe and quality-focused processes that support plant KPIs and goals. 

• Champion a proactive safety culture and ensure compliance with associate safety, food safety, and environmental regulations. 

• Enforce safety protocols and ensure a safe working environment for all associates. 

• Stay updated on regulatory changes and ensure team compliance with safety standards. 

• Lead and sustain safety training for all direct reports in compliance with company guidelines and industry standards. 

• Maintain compliance with food safety regulations and company policies, including HACCP, GMPs, and sanitation protocols. 

• Establish guidelines and training to ensure products meet or exceed quality specifications through adherence to SOPs. 

• Implement and monitor quality control processes, including inspections, audits, and corrective actions. 

• Maintain compliance with regulations including OSHA, ISO, USDA, and FDA standards. 

• Lead corrective actions for non-conformances. 

• Drive initiatives to reduce waste, contamination risks, and product recalls. 

• Execute lean manufacturing principles in collaboration with leadership to enhance productivity and reduce costs. 

• Identify and implement process improvements to improve operational efficiency and product quality. 

Minimum Education and Experience 

• Have 2–4 years of experience in a manufacturing environment. 

• Have 1–2 years of experience in a supervisory or leadership role. 

• Have 2–4 years of sanitation and chemical management experience. 

• Have 1–2 years of experience in a supervisory or leadership role related to sanitation. 

• Demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. 

• Demonstrate proficiency in lean manufacturing, root cause analysis, and ERP systems. 

• Possess in-depth knowledge of quality control processes and compliance standards, including ISO and OSHA. 

• Demonstrate strong problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills. 

• Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. 

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors 

• Move light equipment or supplies from one place to another. 

• Access files, supplies, and equipment. 

• Work on wet and moist floors, including metal and plastic grating surfaces. 

• Work in temperatures ranging from 28°F to 100°F with both ambient and 100% humidity. 

• Handle products ranging from 25°F to 50°F. 

• Be exposed to noise levels ranging from 50 db to 110 db. 

• Be exposed to chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing facilities. 

• Wear and use required protective and safety equipment as directed by the company. 

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.