Cheesemaker Production Manager

Job Title: Cheesemaker Production Manager

Company: Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese

Location: Waterloo, WI

Description: We are seeking an experienced Cheesemaker / Production Manager to oversee day-to-day cheese production and lead our creamery operations. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on cheesemaking experience, a strong understanding of dairy processes, and a passion for leading teams in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment. The ideal candidate will help us maintain product excellence, drive efficiency, and support innovation as we grow into new product lines.

• Oversee and participate in daily cheesemaking operations, including pasteurization, curd handling, stretching, and packaging.
• Lead and train production staff to ensure consistency, safety, and product quality.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety protocols, including HACCP, GMPs, and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate production schedules and staffing to meet sales forecasts and inventory targets.
• Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to ensure all product specifications are met.
• Support new product development, including testing and scaling of recipes.
• Manage production records, sanitation schedules, and equipment maintenance logs.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.
• Act as a liaison between farm operations, packaging, and warehouse/distribution teams. 

Qualifications/Experience:

• 3+ years of cheesemaking experience; artisan or specialty cheese preferred.
• Previous supervisory or management experience in food or dairy production.
• Strong knowledge of dairy science and cheese manufacturing equipment.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations, including FDA, USDA, and WDATCP standards.
• Ability to lead by example, train staff, and foster a positive team environment.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours based on production needs.
• A degree or certification in Dairy Science, Food Science, or a related field is a plus.