Startup Production Supervisor

The Opportunity

At Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, every great production day starts with a great startup. This role is for a hands-on leader who’s ready to set the pace early- getting lines, chocolate, centers, and people aligned so production runs smoothly from the first batch forward.

You’ll work alongside a co-supervisor and partner closely with Production Leads to coordinate startup activities across Bulk Packing, Barline, Dipping, Enrobing, and, when needed, Kitchen support. This is a serious responsibility: safety, quality, and performance start here. It’s also a unique chance to learn new skills and build deep knowledge of chocolate production and the equipment and processes that bring it to life.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the startup plan: review the day’s schedule, set priorities, and communicate expectations through Production Leads.
• Get lines ready and running: confirm equipment setup, staging, and readiness so operations begin efficiently and on time.
• Stay close to the process: monitor and adjust key machine settings (temperature, pressure, timing, conveyors, pumps) and support proper melted/tempered chocolate levels.
• Protect quality from the start: check samples, watch for early warning signs, and make adjustments to maintain consistency and reduce scrap.
• Solve problems fast: partner with Maintenance and other teams to troubleshoot equipment or process issues and minimize downtime.
• Keep it safe and compliant: enforce GMPs, sanitation, and food safety expectations every day.
• Track and communicate: use systems like RedZone, Shop Floor, and SharePoint to support reporting and follow-through.
• Be on the floor when it counts: step in directly when needed to support output, quality, and team success.

What Success Looks Like

• Lines start on time with fewer surprises
• Chocolate and product quality stay consistent from the first run
• Issues are caught early and handled with urgency and calm
• Production Leads feel supported and set up to lead their teams well
• Safety, sanitation, and standards are never optional

What We’re Looking For

• 2+ years of supervisory/management experience in a production environment
• Strong attendance and reliability as this role sets the tone for the day
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working around production equipment
• Clear communicator who can lead through Production Leads and partner across teams
• Quality-focused, calm under pressure, and willing to be hands-on

Bonus if you have: manufacturing software/tracking experience or familiarity with RMCF products and processes.

Physical Environment:

• 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