Startup Production Supervisor

Startup Supervisor

Job Title:

Senior Buyer

Location:

Durango, CO

Department:

Manufacturing Administration

Status:

Regular, Full-Time

Reports To:

Manufacturing Supply Chain Director

FLSA Category:

Non-Exempt

Direct Reports:

10-40

Level:

Midlevel

Relevant Experience:

2+ Years

Salary Range:

$23 - $24/hour

The Startup Supervisor plays a key leadership role in preparing the factory for a successful production day. Working alongside a co-supervisor and partnering closely with Production Leads, this position helps coordinate startup activities across Bulk Packing, Barline, Dipping, Enrobing, and, when needed, Kitchen operations.

This role is responsible for helping ensure equipment is set up properly, chocolate and centers are ready, production lines are running smoothly, and the team is positioned for a strong start each morning. The Startup Supervisor reviews schedules, helps assign priorities, supports troubleshooting, oversees sample runs, and works closely with Maintenance and other departments to keep production moving safely and efficiently.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who values strong attendance, accountability, quality, and teamwork. It requires sound judgment, strong communication, mechanical awareness, and the ability to lead through others in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Just as importantly, this role supports the production of chocolate and confectionery products that bring a little fun and enjoyment to people's day, so pride in quality and consistency truly matters.

The Startup Supervisor uyer will be expected to consistently deliver outstanding outcomes in the following areas:

1. Partner with a co-supervisor and Production Leads to coordinate startup activities and daily production priorities.
2. Help prepare production equipment and lines so operations are ready to begin efficiently and on time.
3. Oversee startup processes across Bulk Packing, Barline, Dipping, Enrobing, and Kitchen support functions as needed.
4. Monitor machine settings such as temperature, pressure, timing, conveyors, pumps, and related controls.
5. Operate and oversee equipment to maintain proper levels of melted and tempered chocolate.
6. Observe product and equipment performance and make adjustments as needed to support quality, temper, consistency, and efficiency.
7. Review product samples before and during production to help ensure standards for quality, color, content, consistency, and viscosity are met.
8. Communicate schedules, assignments, and production expectations through Production Leads.
9. Support Production Leads in guiding team performance, maintaining workflow, and addressing issues on the floor.
10. Review work orders, schedules, reports, and other records to help determine staffing and production needs.
11. Partner with Maintenance and other departments to resolve equipment or process issues in a timely manner.
12. Monitor bloomer counts, scrap levels, line conditions, and other indicators to support production and quality goals.
13. Inspect materials, products, and equipment to identify defects, malfunctions, or process concerns.
14. Help coach, train, and support employees through Production Leads and in partnership with management.
15. Participate in interviewing, onboarding, training, and performance discussions as assigned.
16. Maintain accurate production and employee records, including daily reporting, inspection information, and timekeeping support.
17. Enforce safety, sanitation, GMP, and food safety standards at all times.
18. Participate in accident and injury response, documentation, and follow-up as needed.
19. Use company systems and devices, including desktop computers and tablets, to review and record production information in systems such as RedZone, Shop Floor, and SharePoint.
20. Step onto the production floor as needed to support the team and keep operations moving.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of management or supervisory experience in a production environment; food manufacturing experience preferred.
• Proven ability to help lead teams in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to recognize issues early and respond effectively.
• Strong verbal, written, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and adjust to changing production needs.
• Ability to communicate clearly, set expectations, and support accountability through frontline leadership.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working around production equipment required.
• Comfortable using technology tools, including Microsoft Office, email, Microsoft network accounts, desktop computers, and tablets.
• Professional, dependable, and team-oriented approach to leadership.

• Familiarity with production tracking systems, inventory systems, or manufacturing software preferred.
• Knowledge of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory products and processes preferred.
• Previous experience supervising startup, changeover, or first-shift production operations.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP, SQF, FDA food safety regulations, and sanitation standards.
• Experience troubleshooting automated production equipment, conveyors, pumps, tempering systems, packaging equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery.
• Experience using manufacturing software systems such as ERP, MES, RedZone, Shop Floor, or similar production tracking platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to coach, develop, and hold frontline employees accountable for performance, attendance, safety, and quality expectations.

• Must be able to work on-site in a factory environment with regular interaction with coworkers and production equipment.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment around moving conveyors, machinery, tables, carts, and racks.
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Must be able to bend, reach away from the body and overhead, climb, stoop, grasp small objects, and move safely throughout the facility.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to push and pull wheeled carts, racks, pallets, and similar equipment up to 200 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to work in a facility and handle products that may contain milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, and tree nuts.
• Must be able to follow hygiene, sanitation, safety, and food safety requirements at all times.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings and Flexible Savings Accounts
• 401(k) with company match
• EAP program
• Short/Long Term Disability – Paid by Company
• Life Insurance – Paid by Company
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee Discounts