At Woodland Gourmet, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a culture that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous growth. Our team members are encouraged and empowered to take on challenges, contribute their unique perspectives, and develop their careers. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where every individual’s contribution is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain focused on fostering an atmosphere of learning, respect, and teamwork.

Woodland Gourmet

Since 1989, Woodland Foods has been a trusted source of inspiration for food lovers worldwide. Rooted in authenticity and global culinary exploration, we are dedicated to providing globally inspired specialty ingredients that enhance culinary experiences. Our mission is to partner with customers who share our passion for authentic food solutions, focusing on Collaborative Innovation, Product Diversity, and Agile Operations. With our seasoned team, we craft innovative food experiences by exploring gourmet ingredients and unique flavors.

In December 2021, Woodland Foods was acquired by Graham Partners, a private investment firm committed to growing businesses with strong technological, manufacturing, and product development capabilities.

Idan Foods

Established in 1978, Idan Foods is renowned for its expertise in fried chicken breading, seasoning, baking mixes, and packaging. Specializing in creating unique textures, flavors, and spices, Idan is dedicated to helping customers build their own brand identities. From research and development to packaging and shipping, Idan takes pride in providing exceptional customer service, ensuring each product meets the highest standards. Idan Foods joined the Woodland Gourmet family in April 2024, bringing its expertise in custom food formulation and blending services to our growing portfolio.

Sevillo Fine Foods

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sevillo Fine Foods focuses on producing all-natural, ready-to-eat frozen products designed to save time and labor in the kitchen. With an emphasis on fire-roasted vegetables, slow-roasted tomatoes, spreads, and sauces, Sevillo elevates menus with value-added solutions. The integration of Sevillo with Woodland Gourmet, finalized in March 2025, opens up significant cross-selling opportunities, particularly in the food service distribution channel. This strategic acquisition strengthens our position in the retail and industrial markets while enhancing our capabilities in creating tailored culinary solutions.

Graham Partners

Graham Partners, founded in 1988, is a private investment firm focused on businesses with proprietary technologies, advanced manufacturing expertise, and strong growth potential. With over 110 acquisitions and investments, Graham Partners has a long history of backing companies in the food and consumer technology sectors, including Woodland Gourmet, Commercial Bakeries, Giraffe Food, and more. With significant industry experience and access to extensive operational resources, Graham Partners is a key driver in Woodland Gourmet's growth and success.

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Manufacturing Shift Lead 1st Shift

WAUKEGAN, IL

Full Time

Mid Level

Title: Shift Lead
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Production Supervisor
Supervises: N/ A
Travel: As needed according to the essential functions of the position
Department: Production

JOB PURPOSE: The Shift Leader will coordinate employee activities and product handling on an assigned production line to ensure maximum line efficiency in accordance with our quality and food safety standards.

Essential duties and responsibilities

Crosstrain line employees on any other lines assigned at any given time
Lead Tier 1 huddles and coordinate daily activities for assigned production lines.
Organize and guide line employees to ensure timely starts, efficient order processing, and adherence to production schedules.
Set up, operate, troubleshoot, and adjust production equipment (fillers, coders, scales, sealers, etc.).
Request and manage product and packaging materials to maximize line efficiency.
Train operators and associates, including LOTO-certified lines and cross-training across other lines.
Complete required reports (production, attendance, quality, HACCP) and accurately enter data into EC/M3/paper forms.
Verify finished goods against established SOPs.
Prioritize order processing in relation to shipping requirements and production schedules
Maintain communication with the Supervisor and report any safety, production, staffing, or line inefficiency issues.
Ensure safe equipment operation, promote a safety/quality mindset, and maintain a clean work area.
Conduct allergen and line changeovers and ensure hourly updates to Performance Boards.
Collaborates with the scheduling team to ensure lines are scheduled optimally.
Support shift handoffs and perform other duties as assigned.
Perform all other duties as assigned

Qualifications/Requirements

Bilingual English/Spanish preferred
Prefer High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
Machine operator experience preferred
Must have a working knowledge of general warehouse operations, food industry experience a plus
Must be flexible with hours, possibility for OT
Ability to lift 501bs (anything over 501bs, team lift)
Must follow all WG GMPs and work consistently with all food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements

Skills/Abilities

Basic computer skills and strong leadership abilities.
Ability to read/write English and interpret safety, operating, and procedural documents.
Solid math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide; fractions/decimals) and understanding of scales/weights.
Strong communication, organization, attention to detail, and ability to multitask.
Quick learner with the ability to prioritize and adapt to different production lines.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are those an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions. Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and frequently bend and move about the facility. Must be able to climb ladders and maneuver in small spaces

Personal Protective Equipment

The performance of this position requires exposure to manufacturing and warehouse areas, which, under certain conditions, may require the use of personal protective equipment.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here represent those encountered by an employee while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions. This position does not allow for remote work.

Works in an office and manufacturing environment
Exposure to dust, odors, and noise

This document does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
Woodland Gourmet hires exceptional people to perform a wide variety of important functions that contribute to the success of our organization. We offer a competitive compensation package with benefits. The hourly rate for this role will be $25 to $30. This position is eligible for an annual bonus (based on the incentive program terms and conditions). Based on your qualifications, previous experience, and transferable skills, the company will determine, at its discretion, the hourly rate offered and will reflect the market conditions and cost of living for your geographic location.

Our benefits program is designed to support our team in leading healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. We deeply value the contributions of our team members and are committed to offering a competitive total compensation package. Additionally, we offer medical, prescription drug plans, dental, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, vision insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identify theft), 401k with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays and paid time off.

Woodland Gourmet is a participant in the federal E-Verify program. As part of the hiring process, we will verify the information provided on your Form I-9 to confirm your eligibility to work in the United States.
E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from your Form I-9 to government records to confirm employment eligibility. For more information on E-Verify and your rights, please visit the E-Verify website.

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