Factory Production Lead - Macadamia Nut Processing

Are you passionate about macadamia nuts and ready for a hands-on leadership role? Ahualoa Family Farms in Honoka’a is seeking a detail-oriented, mechanically inclined Factory Production Lead to oversee and actively participate in every aspect of our macadamia nut production process. In this vital role, you’ll be deeply involved in transforming raw macadamia nuts into perfectly sorted kernel, ensuring smooth operations and maintaining high-quality standards. With a small, dedicated team, you will coordinate production, operate and maintain processing equipment, perform repairs, and play a key role in upholding our commitment to delivering the highest quality 100% Hawaii-grown macadamia nuts.

Key Responsibilities:

● Lead day-to-day production activities, ensuring smooth and efficient operations

● Troubleshoot and resolve any production and equipment issues to maximize efficiency, quality, and safety.

● Follow food safety guidelines and procedures (SOPs)

● Operate various pieces of processing equipment, including forklifts, conveyors, bucket elevators, and other machinery and tools.

● Monitor and maintain quality control standards, ensuring every batch meets Ahualoa Family Farm’s high standards

● Maintain production record data and analyze records to strive for improvements

● Oversee and participate in weekly cleaning and sanitizing of all processing equipment

● Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations

● Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment

● Support and maintain process improvements to boost efficiency and productivity

● Maintain inventory of spare parts and processing supplies

● Maintain a preventative maintenance plan

● Perform other duties as assigned, adapting to the needs of the production facility

Job Skills and Qualifications:

● Strong leadership skills with a hands-on, problem-solving approach

● Mechanically inclined, with knowledge of various mechanical systems (knowledge of electrical systems is a plus)

● Experience in plant maintenance, repair, and processing equipment operation is a plus

● Familiarity with hand and power tools

● Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities

● Focus and emphasis on continual process improvement

● Excellent organizational, communication, and team-building skills

● Capable of ensuring a safe work environment and managing worker safety

● Attention to detail and cleanliness in all aspects of work

● Well-organized and able to manage time efficiently

● Welding and fabrication experience (a plus)

● Familiarity with computer systems (Microsoft Excel, Word, etc.)

● Functioning and reliable personal phone for communication

Education & Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or degree in a relevant field preferred.

Proven experience with maintenance and repair.

Physical Requirements:

Manual dexterity to operate equipment, handle tools, climb ladders, fit in tight spaces.

Ability to lift and carry items up to 50 lbs.

Ability to work in a loud environment.

Standing and walking during the whole shift.

Benefits:

Employee discount

Flexible schedule

Health insurance based on eligibility

Paid time off based on eligibility

Employee housing arrangement may be available