Food Production Lead

Company Description

Tallow & Fries, Inc., based in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, is a food manufacturing company that specializes in crafting natural frozen foods that are minimally processed and free from seed oils and food additives.

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced, reliable, and detail-oriented Food Production Lead to join our team as a working leader on our automated frozen french fries production line in a HACCP and SQF work environment. This hands-on lead role involves directing and working alongside a small team of Food Production Associates while actively participating in daily production tasks – from raw potato handling through to final freezing, packaging, and consumer-ready goods. Reporting directly to the Operations Lead, you will ensure smooth operations, high product quality, strict food safety compliance, and achievement of production targets in a fast-paced, refrigerated environment. This position is ideal for an experienced production professional who leads by example, motivates their team, and thrives in collaborative, detail-oriented work.

Responsibilities

• Act as a working lead: Perform production tasks alongside team members while guiding the team to meet daily production goals.
• Direct and coordinate a team of Food Production Associates; assign tasks, monitor workflow, provide real-time coaching and feedback, and ensure everyone follows standard operating procedures.
• Oversee shift operations on the frozen fries line, including potato receiving/washing, peeling, cutting, blanching, frying, IQF freezing, sorting, seasoning, packaging and palletizing.
• Monitor critical control points (CCPs), perform and verify quality inspections, and take immediate corrective actions to maintain consistent quality and safety.
• Enforce full compliance with HACCP, SQF, GMPs, SSOPs, allergen controls, and all food safety/quality policies and regulations to prevent contamination and ensure product quality; document processes accurately and support audit readiness; support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify and troubleshoot minor equipment issues or process bottlenecks; perform basic adjustments and escalate to maintenance or the Shift Supervisor as needed to minimize downtime.
• Assist with line setups, changeovers, and verification against production schedules.
• Promote a positive, food safety culture; lead and participate in required food safety training, audits, and mock recalls; conduct on-the-job training, toolbox talks, and motivate the team to uphold high standards of performance and hygiene.
• Track key metrics during the shift; report observations and results to the Operations Lead and contribute ideas for improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area; lead team in routine sanitation, line clean-ups, end-of-shift cleans, and adherence to healthy & safety protocols.
• Step in to cover team roles during absences, peak periods, or to demonstrate best practices.
• Collaborate with the Operations Lead, Plant Manager and other departments to support overall production efficiency.
• Handle and move materials safely using appropriate equipment, while adhering to workplace health and safety standards.
• Complete all required documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Perform other responsibilities and duties as assigned from time to time by management.

Requirements

• Commitment to food safety and quality.
• Reliable, punctual, and responsible.
• Strong communication and leadership skills; able to coach, motivate, and work collaboratively within a team.
• Ability to problem solve and work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Previous experience in a food service environment or HACCP-based food manufacturing is preferred.
• Knowledge of food handling practices and food safety regulations.
• Knowledge and comfort of using knives and peelers.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings and weekends as required.
• Ability to work in a refrigerated/frozen environment and stand/walk for extended periods
• Practical mechanical aptitude for operating and adjusting automated production equipment.
• Basic math skills for measurement, weights, and data recording.
• A valid food handler certification is an asset.
• HACCP I and/or HACCP II training an asset.
• Capable of lifting up to 40-50lbs.
• Must pass a pre-employment background check.

Join our team and be part of creating memorable frozen foods through quality food preparation and cooking! We tahnk all applicants; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Casual, Part-Time, Full Time

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent

Experience:

• 3+ years in a food production environment

Language:

• English

Licence/Certification:

• Food Handler Certification (preferred)
• HACCP/SQF training

Reports to:

· Operations Lead

Direct Reports:

· Food Production Associates

Work Location: In person at 2396 Stanfield Road, Mississauga, Ontario, L4Y 1S1