19.02.2025

Line Leader

At Ballymaguire Foods, we are committed to producing high-quality food products that meet the needs of our customers. We operate in a fast-paced, safety-conscious environment where teamwork and a focus on quality are key to our success.

The Line Leader is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a production line in a food manufacturing environment. This includes managing and supervising the production team, ensuring that production targets, quality standards, and safety protocols are met efficiently. The Line Leader will work closely with the Production Supervisor and other departments to ensure smooth production flow, troubleshoot any operational issues, and maintain a high level of food safety and hygiene compliance in line with industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Team Supervision

Lead, motivate, and manage a team of production operatives, ensuring that all tasks are completed according to set schedules, quality standards, and safety requirements.

  1. Production Efficiency:

Ensure that the production line runs smoothly and efficiently by monitoring the progress of work and addressing any issues or bottlenecks that arise.

  1. Quality Control: Monitor product quality throughout the production process, ensuring that all products meet the company’s specifications, safety standards, and compliance with HACCP and FSAI regulations.
  2. Health and Safety Compliance:

Maintain a safe working environment by ensuring that all employees are adhering to health and safety procedures, using appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), and reporting any safety concerns. Conduct daily safety checks and ensure that equipment and work areas meet health and safety standards in accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.

  1. Training and Development:

 Provide on-the-job training and development to team members to ensure they are skilled in operating machinery, handling raw materials, and following safety and quality guidelines.

  1. Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving:

Address and resolve operational issues that may affect the quality, efficiency, or safety of production. Work closely with maintenance teams to minimise downtime and ensure equipment is functioning optimally.

  1. Performance Monitoring:

Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), such as production output, product quality, and downtime, to meet daily and weekly targets.

  1. Reporting:

Provide regular updates to the Production Supervisor or Shift Manager on production performance, including any challenges or deviations from planned targets.

  1. Continuous Improvement:

Identify and implement opportunities for improving production processes, reducing waste, and enhancing efficiency. Participate in Kaizen or Lean manufacturing initiatives where applicable.

  1. Compliance:

Ensure that all production activities comply with relevant food safety, hygiene, and regulatory requirements, including allergen management and traceability.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Experience: A minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a production or manufacturing environment, preferably in the food industry. Previous experience in a supervisory or leadership role is highly desirable.
  • Food Safety and Quality Management: Familiarity with HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points), food safety regulations, and FSAI (Food Safety Authority of Ireland) standards.
  • Health and Safety: Knowledge of health and safety regulations in the workplace, particularly in a manufacturing setting, and the ability to enforce safety protocols. Training in manual handling, first aid, and fire safety would be an advantage.
  • Technical Skills: Basic knowledge of food manufacturing machinery and processes. Previous experience operating or troubleshooting production equipment is a plus.

Key Skills & Competencies

  • Leadership and Team Management: Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to manage, motivate, and support a team of operatives. Ability to delegate tasks effectively and ensure team members are focused on achieving production targets.
  • Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Excellent troubleshooting skills with the ability to make quick, informed decisions to address production issues and minimise downtime.
  • Attention to Detail: Strong focus on quality control and food safety, ensuring that all production activities meet the required standards.
  • Communication: Clear and effective communication skills, both verbal and written, to ensure that information is passed between the production team and other departments, as well as with management.
  • Time Management: Ability to manage time effectively, prioritise tasks, and ensure that production targets are met within given deadlines.
  • Health and Safety Awareness: In-depth knowledge of food safety and workplace safety standards, with the ability to enforce compliance among team members.
  • Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing production demands, schedules, and tasks while maintaining high standards of work.

 

Key Performance Indicators

Performance Metrics: You will be expected to meet daily production targets, maintain a high standard of food safety compliance, and ensure minimal product defects.