Job Description

Position Summary: The Sanitation Manager is responsible for leading and managing all sanitation functions to ensure the facility maintains the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety, and regulatory compliance. This role is critical in an ice cream manufacturing environment where allergen control, microbial risk, and hygiene are top priorities. The ideal candidate will combine strong sanitation expertise with effective leadership to drive a culture of accountability, quality, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage the Master Sanitation Schedule (MSS) and ensure all cleaning procedures (SSOPs) are followed and documented.
• Supervise and coach the sanitation team, ensuring proper training on cleaning procedures, chemical handling, safety, and hygiene practices.
• Oversee nightly sanitation activities and verify readiness for daily production.
• Conduct pre-op inspections, environmental swabbing, and allergen cleaning verification.
• Partner with QA, Maintenance, and Production to proactively address sanitation concerns.
• Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, FSMA, OSHA, GMP, and internal standards.
• Lead internal and external sanitation audits and respond to findings with corrective actions.
• Manage sanitation supply inventory and ensure safe and cost-effective chemical use.
• Continuously improve sanitation processes and support initiatives that reduce downtime and improve product safety.

Leadership Attributes: We are seeking a strong people leader who embodies the following values and leadership traits:

• High Emotional Intelligence (EI): Approaches challenges and feedback with self-awareness, empathy, and professionalism.
• Team Builder: Creates a positive and inclusive team environment that fosters collaboration and respect.
• Treats Everyone Equally: Holds all team members to the same standard with fairness and consistency.
• Direct & Positive Communicator: Communicates expectations clearly and constructively.
• Strategic Thinker: Anticipates long-term needs and aligns sanitation goals with plant priorities.
• Caring Leader: Values team well-being and builds trust through genuine support.
• Sets Clear Expectations: Defines goals, roles, and responsibilities to ensure accountability.
• Holds Self and Others Accountable: Leads by example and follows through on commitments.
• Agent of Change: Embraces innovation and drives improvements in sanitation practices and culture.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field preferred.
• Deep knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, SSOPs, allergen control, and sanitation best practices.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Experience with third-party audits and regulatory inspections.
• Proficient in documentation, recordkeeping, and sanitation-related systems.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Willingness to work flexible shifts, including nights and weekends.

Work Environment:

• Cold, wet, and high-humidity conditions common to ice cream manufacturing.
• Requires standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 50 lbs) for extended periods.
• Regular use of PPE and exposure to sanitation chemicals.

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