Sanitation Manager
Summary:
The Sanitation Manager is responsible for leading, developing, and optimizing all sanitation and pest control programs within the facility to ensure food safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. This role manages a team of sanitation employees, oversees sanitation systems and procedures, and serves as the plant?s primary technical resource for sanitation and pest control matters. The position works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and product integrity throughout the plant.
Key Responsibilities:
Sanitation Program Leadership
Direct daily sanitation activities for all plant areas, ensuring effective, safe, and cost-efficient cleaning and pest control operations.
Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensiveSanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs)and theMaster Sanitation Scheduleto ensure consistency and compliance.
Evaluate cleaning sequences, frequencies, tools, and chemicals to ensure optimal results and drive continuous improvement.
Manage sanitation documentation, including procedures, inspection records, and corrective actions.
Ensure changeover cleanings are completed accurately and efficiently according to established procedures.
Training & Team Development
Supervise, coach, and develop sanitation team members, ensuring proper training on procedures, chemicals, GMPs, and safety standards.
Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and adherence to food safety protocols.
Conduct performance evaluations and implement improvement plans as needed.
Regulatory Compliance & Auditing
Serve as theprimary liaisonwith regulatory agencies, corporate sanitation auditors, and third-party inspectors.
Conduct regularplant sanitation inspectionsand participate in internal and corporate sanitation audits.
Maintain compliance withFDA, USDA, and company food safety standards, ensuring products meet all quality and regulatory requirements.
Review audit findings, develop corrective actions, and verify their effectiveness through follow-up audits.
Food Safety & Pest Control
Ensure all cleaning and pest control programs are effectively executed to prevent contamination or infestation.
Manage thenon-pathogen monitoring programand ensure proper documentation and escalation of pest findings.
Collaborate with Maintenance to eliminate pest control risks and address structural or equipment-related sanitation issues.
Maintain control over sanitation supplies, ensuring approved chemicals and tools are properly stored and used.
Equipment & Facility Hygiene
Oversee and maintain cleanliness and sanitary conditions across all production and support areas.
Work withEngineering and Maintenanceteams to assess new and existing equipment for sanitary design and recommend improvements.
Ensure proper management and documentation ofoverhead leaks, waste disposal, and recycling programs.
Continuous Improvement & Quality Collaboration
Partner withOperations and Quality teamsto identify and implement sanitation-related process improvements.
Drive sustainability ofFood Safety and Quality practicesacross all departments.
Participate inGMP auditsand act as a change agent to promote continuous improvement in plant hygiene and compliance practices.
Education & Experience Requirements:
Bachelor?s degreepreferred; coursework in Food Science, Microbiology, Engineering, or related field desirable.
3+ years of experiencemanaging sanitation programs and direct reports in afood processing or manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge ofsanitation systems, SSOPs, pest control programs, and regulatory standards (FDA, USDA, GMPs).
Experience collaborating withcross-functional teamsin operations, maintenance, and quality.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with sanitation tracking systems or ERP tools.
Demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills with a commitment to food safety excellence.