Assembly Lead - Berkeley Culinary Center

SUMMARY

The Assembly Lead is responsible for leading the assembly line team in the safe and accurate assembly of food products in accordance with Whitsons’ standards and all applicable food safety requirements. This role supports daily production runs - giving instruction, overseeing assembly work, promoting efficiency and best practices, and assisting with product assembly - within a manufacturing and warehouse environment. Clear communication, adherence to safe food handling procedures, and the ability to lead by example are fundamental expectations of this role.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND DUTIES

Line Leadership & Instruction

• Oversee the assembly line to ensure the team follows all proper and safe product assembly procedures; supervise assembly work and provide direction throughout each production run to keep the line on schedule.
• Provide verbal or written instruction so team members can complete assembly assignments, including the assembly of products or sub-assemblies to specification; provide guidance and coaching that encourage efficiency and best practices; communicate line status, staffing needs, and concerns to the Production Supervisor.

Assembly, Food Safety & Compliance

• Assist the team in assembling product in proper containers and packaging, stepping in on the line as needed to maintain accuracy and output; verify product, materials, and labeling are correct before and during each run.
• Ensure all procedures for safe food handling are followed at all times; comply with all Whitsons policies and procedures and workplace safety practices; complete all Whitsons and government-required training as necessary; perform all other duties as assigned.

$20/hour

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of food production, assembly, or packaging experience required; prior experience leading or training team members preferred.

Other Qualifications

• Must complete all Whitsons and government-required training as necessary.
• Must be able to speak, read, and write English sufficient to give and follow instructions and comply with safety requirements

Core Competencies

• Food Safety & Compliance: Consistently follows and enforces safe food handling, sanitation, and applicable regulatory standards; complies with all Whitsons policies and required training at all times.
• Leadership & Coaching: Directs and instructs line team members; provides guidance that encourages efficiency and best practices; leads by example and models safe, professional behavior on the line.
• Execution & Reliability: Keeps assembly assignments on schedule and in the correct quantities; follows production specifications and instructions to ensure consistent, high-quality output every shift.
• Attention to Detail: Verifies product condition, containers, packaging, and labeling; catches and corrects errors before product leaves the line.
• Communication: Gives clear verbal and written instructions; listens to team members; promptly reports quality, safety, staffing, or equipment concerns to the Production Supervisor.
• Teamwork: Works cooperatively with team members, supervisors, and other production areas; builds a positive, productive line environment and supports the team’s daily goals.
• Professionalism: Arrives on time, follows assigned schedules, maintains proper uniform and hygiene standards, and consistently presents a positive image on behalf of Whitsons.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND OTHER DETAILS

Expected Hours of Work

The Assembly Lead position is a full-time non-exempt position. Days and hours of work are aligned with the production schedule; extended hours, evenings, and/or weekends may be required.

Travel Requirements

This position is primarily site-based. Travel to multiple work sites and occasional out-of-state travel may be required.

Physical Demands of the Job

The Team Member is required to stand on their feet for the majority of the workday; frequently walk, talk, and hear; use hands and fingers to handle product, tools, and equipment; and reach with hands and arms. Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, including while turning side to side. Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Exposure to cold temperatures from refrigeration equipment and freezers is regular. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily in a manufacturing and warehouse environment, specifically the assembly, packing, and warehousing areas, with regular movement in and out of storerooms and near heavy machinery and freezers. The noise level is moderate to loud.