Production Specialist - Muffins - 1st Shift
West Columbia, SC, US, 29169
Hungry for a career that’s as rewarding as it is delicious?
At Aspire Bakeries, we don’t just bake breads, cookies, and cakes - we create foods that bring people together. From La Brea Bakery® artisan breads to Otis Spunkmeyer® cookies, our products are enjoyed by millions of people every day. And behind every bite are talented manufacturing and support teams who take pride in their work and our food.
We’re looking for hard-working people who will bring integrity, creativity, and a passion for excellence to everything they do - whether that’s on the bakery floor, in the office, or supporting customers. In return, we offer a workplace culture built on care, ownership, and growth - where your contributions matter and your career can rise as high as our bread loaves!
With 13 commercial bakeries across North America and a reputation as an industry leader, Aspire Bakeries is rising together with our people and our customers to be the best all-around bakery solution. If you’re ready to grow with us, we’d love to hear from you.
Why You’ll Love Working At Aspire Bakeries
- Culture – Our culture thrives on collaboration, diversity, and a shared passion for excellence. We support team members, empower growth, and encourage everyone to bring their authentic selves to work.
- Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-paid life insurance and additional voluntary options to fit your needs.
- Work-Life Balance – Paid parental leave, generous paid time off, and holidays so you can recharge and spend time on what matters most.
- Financial Security – Competitive retirement plans, plus short- and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind.
- Growth & Development – Opportunities to build skills, grow your career, and develop expertise through Aspire Bakeries’ learning and development programs.
- Flexibility & Support – HSA and FSA plans to help you manage everyday expenses.
- Recognition & Rewards – Performance incentive plans that celebrate achievements across sales, bakery performance, and individual contributions.
About the Role
We are seeking a Production Coordinator – Technical Focus to join our team at our Cayce bakery. This role combines production coordination with technical responsibilities to ensure reliable operations, minimize downtime, and optimize startup performance during critical ramp-up periods.
Shift & Schedule
Shift: 1st Shift
Hours: 5:45AM – 2:15PM
Weekend Availability: Required
Core Accountabilities (What You’ll Be Doing)
Production Coordination & Documentation
- Verify staffing levels and ensure all positions are filled.
- Provide backup coverage for vacant positions during the shift.
- Oversee machinery, equipment, and personnel during assigned shift.
- Report directly to Production Supervisor and collaborate with Maintenance Supervisor.
Shift-Specific Technical Responsibilities (1st Shift)
- Partner with maintenance during 4:00 AM startup operations.
- Troubleshoot equipment issues during critical ramp-up period.
- Support startup core team to improve time-to-production metrics.
- Optimize startup productivity through technical intervention.
- Address real-time equipment issues as production ramps up.
- Coordinate with maintenance to resolve mechanical problems quickly.
Preventive Maintenance & Downtime Prevention (All Shifts)
- Perform belt tension checks to prevent jams.
- Inspect sensors, rods, and hoses to prevent failures.
- Complete mixer door sensor PM to avoid startup delays.
- Execute preventive maintenance checklists and report potential issues.
Technical Troubleshooting & Problem Solving (All Shifts)
- Diagnose and resolve equipment issues during production.
- Make real-time adjustments to optimize performance.
- Document equipment problems and solutions for continuous improvement.
Food Safety & Compliance
- Follow GMPs and food safety regulations at all times.
- Maintain effective working relationships and a clean work environment.
Minimum Qualifications (What You Bring to the Table)
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Minimum 3 years of manufacturing experience.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to perform basic preventive maintenance tasks.
- Effective communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including early startup support.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to work in varying temperature environments.
- Ability to perform repetitive motions and use hand tools.
Aspire Bakeries is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants.