Processing Team Lead

At Johnsonville, we use our business to build our people. If you're passionate about making a difference, we want you to help make our products, our processes, our communities and each other better. Wisconsin-based Johnsonville is the No. 1 national sausage brand enjoyed in 45 countries. Founded in 1945 by the late Ralph F. and Alice Stayer, our company is 2,000 members strong and remains privately owned today. Come join our family-owned company!

Processing Team Lead

 Hours: 6:00am – 2:30pm (Overtime time as production demands) 

Position Overview

The Processing Team Lead is responsible for leading daily line operations to achieve production, safety, quality, and cost objectives. This role provides direct leadership to Members, fosters engagement and skill growth, and drives problem-solving to sustain world-class performance. The Team Lead serves as the primary leader for the line, partnering with the Production Coordinator to ensure operational goals are met, compliance standards are upheld, and Members are developed to their fullest potential.

 Pay Range: $30.67 – $33.45

Essential Duties / Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Line Management

• Lead start-up and shutdown activities, ensuring all checklists, material readiness, and line adjustments are completed accurately.
• Manage day-to-day line performance, including tracking yields, throughput, efficiency, and quality checks.
• Escalate and resolve operational issues quickly to maintain continuous production.
• Assign and coordinate Member work, ensuring coverage for short crews, absences, and relief needs.

Member Development & Coaching

• Conduct daily tailgate meetings, sharing performance results, priorities, and safety/quality reminders.
• Lead on-the-line coaching to reinforce best practices in safety, food safety, and quality.
• Facilitate PDC development/reviews, development discussions, and 30/60/90-day new hire check-ins.
• Drive Skill Block completion and cross-training to build team versatility.
• Address performance issues through feedback, coaching reports, and PIP development when needed.

Compliance, Safety & Quality

• Ensure all Members follow human safety, USDA, HACCP, and company policies.
• Lead quality investigations, including incident reporting, disposition meetings, and RCA participation.
• Conduct audits (5S, safety, work orders, LOTO, reliability) and ensure corrective actions are completed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in all departmental spaces.

Administrative & Systems Management

• Complete end-of-day reporting and maintain accurate fat inventory.
• Manage Kronos timekeeping: correct punches, enter missed punches, and run attendance reports.
• Oversee SAP functions, including Hold processes, process order validation, and corrections.
• Collaborate with the Production Coordinator on scheduling, PTO approvals, crewing models, overtime management, and labor agency communication.
• Gather data, prepare materials, and represent the line in meetings (project updates, leadership reviews, town halls, plant meetings).

Continuous Improvement & Reliability

• Lead and/or participate in improvement teams (Kaizen, RCA).
• Partner with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements that drive efficiency, yield, and quality gains.
• Monitor and sustain reliability initiatives, ensuring defect handling and preventive practices are embedded in daily work.

Experience / Qualifications

• Current Member of the Processing Team with proven leadership and performance track record.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coach Members to achieve individual and team goals.
• In-depth knowledge of regulatory compliance areas (Human Safety, USDA, HACCP).
• Proficiency with SAP, Kronos, Outlook, Word, and Excel preferred.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing conditions.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and Member development.

 Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Walking and/or standing throughout the shift
• Bending and/or reaching throughout the shift
• Willingness to work in cold conditions

 Other Requirements:

• Willingness to travel to other facilities to learn their processes and expand knowledge

Coach for this position:    Rigo Magana, Ops Coordinator

Location:                           Holton, KS

Member Status:                Fulltime, Hourly

How to Apply:          

Internal Members:  Log into Home Page - The Grill (johnsonville.com). Click on the MemberCentral app (left maroon sidebar) then click on the “Home” drop down and click “Careers” to apply for the position titled " Processing Department Team Lead.” 

For external candidates: Please go to careers.johnsonville.com

We value the diversity of our workforce and we embrace the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment. M/F/Vet/Disability

Johnsonville values the service Veterans and their family members have given to our country.  We support the hiring of returning service members and military spouses.