packaging manufacturing plant manager

JOB DESCRIPTIONThe Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and managing the overall operations of the packaging department to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production. This role oversees daily packaging performance, ensures compliance with quality and sanitation standards, develops team capability, and drives continuous improvement across processes, cost control, an operational execution. The Packaging Manager provides strategic direction, makes final decisions on resource planning, and plays a critical leadership role within the plant's operations team. Compensation: Competitive salary starting from $90,000, commensurate with experience and qualification. RESPONSIBILITIES Lead, coach, and support Packaging Supervisors and the packaging team. Ensure safe and efficient daily packaging operations. Monitor production performance, including recovery, rates, waste, downtime, and costs. Review and analyze data to identify opportunities for improvement. Ensure compliance with GMPs, sanitation standards, and quality requirements. Work closely with Maintenance to schedule and prioritize equipment maintenance. Oversee repack and bulk operations to meet production targets. Participate in daily production and safety meetings. Conduct regular floor walks and audits for safety, productivity, and quality. Prepare reports and communicate performance updates to leadership. Support continuous improvement activities such as Lean, 5S, and waste reduction. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Food Science, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field or equivalent experience. 5+ years of experience in packaging operations within food manufacturing, CPG, or a high-volume production environment. 2-3 years of supervisory or managerial experience leading packaging teams. Experience working in a unionized manufacturing environment is considered an asset. Strong understanding of GMPs, sanitation, quality, and safety practices. Good communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities. Must be available for on-call shift coverage as needed to support 24/7 production operations, including responding to urgent issues, staffing shortages or operational needs. ABOUT USFounded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.ABOUT THE TEAMCavendish Farms is a family-run company, where our team members are never just a number. We work from seed-to-table, providing opportunities to explore and grow. Headquartered in Dieppe, New Brunswick, Cavendish Farms is a leading producer of frozen potato products and appetizers throughout Canada, the Un