The labour shortage in food manufacturing is nothing new, but the issue runs deeper than labour alone. Canadian food manufacturers are struggling to attain professionals with the necessary skills and credentials.

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When you look at it that way, the real problem boils down to a skills shortage. Running short on skills makes the selection of qualified candidates very slim for hiring managers. On the other hand, it gives qualified professionals the upper hand. Having the appropriate credentials and experience can put you ahead of the pack.

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We’ve compiled a list of the top 3 most in-demand food manufacturing jobs with the qualifications needed to land one of them. Find out what they are and what else employers seek in a prospective hire.

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                                    Want to know which job boards made the top 3? Click here!

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Most In-Demand Food Manufacturing Jobs

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1. Maintenance

There are several maintenance positions up for grabs in food manufacturing. From maintenance managers to maintenance engineers and technicians, there are a variety of jobs available in this sector.

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Food manufacturers are looking for individuals with a post-secondary degree in a related field or an Industrial Mechanic license. Hiring managers may also request you have at least 3-5 years of experience.

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Other Requirements For Maintenance:

• A working knowledge of food plant regulatory standards (CFIA) and OSHA
• A mechanical aptitude
• Strong communication and analysis skills
• Problem-identification and problem-solving capabilities

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2. Production Supervisor

Many food processing plants are in need of production supervisors. This position is available throughout the food manufacturing industry, e.g., meatpacking, bakery, dairy, cannabis, alternative protein, etc.

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Food manufacturing employers need professionals with at least a bachelor’s degree and anywhere from 3-5 years of experience in a production environment.

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Other Food Production Supervisor Requirements:

• A firm grasp of OSHA
• A certification or an equivalent in food safety, sanitation, or food handling
• Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations, HACCP, and company regulations
• Good labour and management practices
• Superior communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships

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3. Health & Safety

The health & safety sector has a variety of positions available in food processing. Food manufacturing plants need food safety coordinators, health & safety specialists, food safety supervisors, and health & safety managers.

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A college or university degree is a must for consideration. A degree in food health, safety, environment, or a relevant discipline will help you get through the door.

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Other Health & Safety Qualifications:

• Someone who can consistently maintain regulatory compliance: CFIA, SFCA, FDA, FSMA, and Organic certification (when applicable)
• Capable of cultivating a strong food safety culture throughout the manufacturing plant
• An urgency to address product concerns and formal complaints

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                                   Click here to learn about the best food safety certifications!

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The top food manufacturing jobs can only be filled by highly skilled and certified professionals. Not just anyone can walk into a food plant and be a maintenance engineer, production supervisor, or health & safety manager. 

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Finding qualified candidates with the skills food manufacturers need is a feat when the talent pool is underqualified. You can help close the skills gap in the industry if you have the skills, experience, and certifications for any of these positions.

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To make it even better, QTalent has a platform that brings the top food manufacturing jobs to your fingertips. You can create a profile highlighting your specific skills, experiences, and credentials. Once your profile is complete, you can search for jobs near you in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia.

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Having a profile with QTalent allows your qualifications to do the talking for you. Sign up and create an account today!

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You don’t want to miss out on your next employment opportunity.

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