Production Manager (Food and Beverage)

Production Managers in the Food and Beverage sector play a crucial role in overseeing the daily operations of manufacturing facilities. They are responsible for coordinating production schedules, managing teams, and ensuring that products meet strict quality and safety standards. Their contribution is vital to maintaining the efficiency and profitability of food and beverage and meat and seafood manufacturers, which in turn supports local economies and satisfies consumer demands.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Oversee daily production operations and team performance.
  2. Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.
  3. Optimise production schedules and resource allocation.
  4. Implement process improvements and efficiency measures.
  5. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet production targets.

This career lets you play a key role in creating the food and drinks people enjoy every day. It’s a mix of teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation — where your decisions directly shape quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Vocational Education Training Options

Vocational education and training (VET) qualifications build the hands-on skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles on the production floor. Relevant VET qualifications include:

  • Certificate IV in Food Processing (FBP40321)
  • Diploma of Food Science and Technology (FBP50121)

Salary Expectations

Median salary is $134,600

This wage reflects VET qualification with typical experience in the field and excludes apprentice rates.

Source: 2023 ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (Jobs and Skills Australia website), annualised weekly earnings for Production Managers.