Job Description:

Position Summary:Directs and supervises the cleaning of plant production equipment and facility to meet food safety requirements as required by federal, state, and local regulations and by FDA to meet customer quality and safety standards. Also directs and supervises the Plant Pest Control Program. Ensures employees follow Company policies and procedures. Ensures that sanitation, quality, and department efficiencies are maintained at or above standards. Supports the commitment and continual improvement to Food Safety and Quality programs.Major Duties and Responsibilities:Plan, schedule, organize and delegate sanitation needs. Ensure that department is staffed properly to sanitize equipment and facility. Ensure that employees are trained to perform the job to which they are assigned. Administer work rules and company policies in a fair and consistent manner.Sanitize in accordance with SOP's, HACCP, GMP, EPA, and OSHA requirements and product specifications. Evaluate and update the Sanitation Department procedure manual and Master Sanitation Schedule to reflect changes in equipment design, new equipment, or changes in the cleaning process. Conduct training to reflect changes.Train, coach and motivate employees. Maintain attendance record of employees. Administer employee discipline for attendance and performance deficiencies.Ensure that all required records are accurate and completed in a timely manner. Review Sanitation records, CIP charts, CIP flow rates and chemical concentrations for accuracy. Respond to findings from internal and external audits and inspections. Conduct routine daily post cleaning inspections and microbiological sampling.Maintain program of Inventorying & Ordering cleaning chemicals, cleaning equipment and replacement parts for the Sanitation Department. Evaluate effectiveness of Pest Control program, Office Cleaning Services and Chemical Supplier programs.Solve problems requiring immediate and decisive action. Investigate and determine through root cause of problemsInteract with support departments. Complete or check work orders for equipment repairs.Other duties as assigned by supervisorEducation and Experience:Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience2+ years of experience in a lead position or supervisory role in a food processing plant, preferably in sanitationKnowledge and Skills:Must be able to communicate accurately and clearly both orally and in writing using electronic media, telephone and direct contact with internal and external personnel. Bi-lingual (English / Spanish) abilities is a plus.Knowledge in C.I.P. & C.O.P. cleaning techniques. Must be mechanically inclined and able to troubleshoot problems mechanically and physically. Experience in leading employees and communicating effectively in order to achieve company goals. Delegates work assignments and sets expectations, motivates others, develops subordinates' skills, and values diversity.Understand and have knowledge of chemicals used in the cleaning process; understand the manufacturing process and equipment parts/systems in order to ensure proper sanitization of equipment and efficient line startups.Physical Demands:Regularly requires intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling. Physical strength and dexterity sufficient to perform the required task(s). Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds or more with assistance. Additional demands may be required.Work Environment:In addition to normal business hours, work schedules may include after hours and weekends as needed. May work outside and in adverse temperatures which include extreme hot, cold, and humidity. May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration. Must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by established Company Safety standards. May require work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet for prolonged periods of time.Diversity & Inclusion:Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment in which all employees are treated with respect is evident in our company culture and values. We believe that fostering an environment of inclusion and a focus on diversity across our organization is vital to attracting top talent, driving innovation, and meeting the high expectations of our customers in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.Ventura Foods is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.