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Startup Production Supervisor

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Durango, CO, United States


Startup Production Supervisor

Salary Range $23.00 - $24.00 Hourly
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
Qualifications

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