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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