Director of Operations
At Sensient Technologies, we are experts in the science, art, and innovation of color and flavor. We are market-savvy and visionary. We are problem solvers. And we are better with you.
The Director of Operations for our Agricultural Ingredients Division provides strategic leadership for large-scale manufacturing operations across three production facilities located in Turlock, California; Livingston, California; and Deming, New Mexico. This role is accountable for delivering operational excellence across all sites, ensuring top-tier performance in production, food safety, quality, cost management, and continuous improvement. The Operations Director works closely with Plant Leadership, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Quality teams to enhance efficiency, optimize manufacturing performance, and support the company’s long-term growth strategy.
What you’ll do:
Provide strategic leadership across multiple manufacturing facilities, aligning plant operations with business objectives and growth initiatives.
Lead and develop Plant Managers and operations teams, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and high performance.
Drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement, implementing Lean principles to enhance yield, throughput, labor productivity, and equipment effectiveness.
Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards, including SQF, BRC, and FDA requirements.
Oversee operational and financial performance, including cost management, budget execution, and capital planning.
Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing processes, automation, and scalability across all sites.
Collaborate with Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, and Commercial teams to align production capacity with customer demand and support strategic initiatives.
What you’ll bring:
Significant progressive manufacturing leadership experience, including demonstrated success leading complex operations and developing high-performing teams.
Experience within food manufacturing, agricultural ingredients, or related process-driven production environments.
Proven ability to lead large, cross-functional teams and build strong operational leadership capability across multiple facilities.
Expertise in Lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and continuous improvement methodologies.
A strong track record of driving operational performance, managing change, and leading organizations through transformation and growth.
Bachelor’s degree preferred, ideally in Engineering, Operations Management, Food Science, or a related technical discipline.
What you’ll get:
The opportunity to be part of a global, market-leading organization known for innovation in color and flavor.
A highly visible leadership role with the ability to drive operational excellence across multiple manufacturing sites and influence strategic business outcomes.
The chance to build and develop strong operational leadership teams while fostering a culture of safety, performance, and continuous improvement.
A competitive compensation and benefits package, including 401(k), stock purchase programs, and comprehensive health benefits.
Access to professional development resources and a structured onboarding experience designed to support long-term success.
About Sensient
Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.
About Sensient Agricultural Ingredients
Sensient Agricultural Ingredients is one of the largest producers and distributors in the world of dehydrated onion and garlic products as well as chili powder, paprika, chili pepper and dehydrated vegetables such as parsley, celery, and spinach. These ingredients are used in many of today's popular convenience foods. The Agricultural Ingredients unit is located in Turlock, California.
The salary range for this position is $190,000 - $230,000 Pay within the range is based on several factors, which may include, but are not limited to, education, work experience, specialized training, and labor market conditions. In addition to salary, Sensient is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to support the holistic well-being of our employees and their families. This position is also eligible for performance-based incentive pay.
SPONSORSHIP: Due to our inability to offer visa sponsorship, we can only consider candidates who are authorized to work in the US without the need for employment visa sponsorship.
THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Sensient Technologies and will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions.
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our stories We work together in person to put the needs of our customers first and get results. Be different. Be Sensient. -
who we are We’re on a mission across the globe to unlock the potential of our customers’ food, pharmaceutical, and personal care products.
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faq You have questions? here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions people have about a career with Sensient.
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the Americas We offer multiple locations across the United States, Latin America, and Canada. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles.
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global locations At Sensient, we believe in the power of collaborating face-to-face, in person. With locations around the world, we offer plenty of opportunities to build the career that best suits you. Learn more about our global locations.
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what we do We develop and manufacture flavors, colors, and extracts that bring our customers’ products to life. Our products positively impact the daily experience of millions.
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sustainability Sustainability is central to our mission at Sensient. Everyone here is dedicated to working together to bring sustainable innovations to the world. This includes vegan flavors, low-carbon products, natural and organic ingredients, and so much more.
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key hiring areas at Sensient Technologies Many paths to success. With a variety of categories and locations, it’s important to find the role that fits you best.
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learning & development We offer a variety of unmatched opportunities for training designed to help you develop your skills. Each program is tailored to specific areas of focus and intended to bring out your best while setting you up for a long, exciting, and fruitful career at Sensient. Take control of your future and learn more about our development programs.
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tips for your application Interested in applying to join us, but not sure how to begin? We’ve compiled a list of tips and advice from some current employees to help you get started.
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coaching at Sensient Having a strong coaching culture is a top priority for Sensient. We are committed to helping our employees grow and develop in their roles to meet their future career goals.
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Working at Juneau Discover what makes working at the Juneau, WI facility unique! With a rich history, and a close-knit team of under 100 employees, this location offers a collaborative work environment where personal connections thrive.
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Working in St. Louis Discover what it's like working at our Colors Headquarters! With a dynamic work environment, you’ll have opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute with a focus on innovation and career development.
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Why Sensient?
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your future starts at Sensient Unleash the power of bold flavors and bright colors and experience the thrill of developing products that are essential to hundreds of millions of users. Learn more about who we are and how our teams work together to create innovative solutions.
