DRINK X
Assistant Operations Manager – Beverage Manufacturing
Full-Time | 5 days per week
Location: South Geelong (Free on-site parking)
An opportunity exists to join a Geelong-based family business experiencing rapid growth in the Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverage Manufacturing industry.
With over 20 years in beverage manufacturing, DRINK_X is recognised for product development expertise, small to medium production runs, and advanced pack-out capabilities typically found only in much larger facilities. As a contract manufacturer, we work with a wide range of clients—from start-up founders to global beverage brands—bringing new products to life every day.
This role is ideal for a highly experienced, hands-on beverage professional who enjoys being on the production floor, making product, leading from the front, and helping drive the next phase of growth. Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, this position offers a clear pathway to Operations Manager for the right candidate.
Only applicants with proven beverage manufacturing experience will be considered.
About the Role
The Assistant Operations Manager is a hands-on production and leadership role. You will spend the majority of your time on the floor manufacturing product, overseeing daily operations, and supporting production staff.
In addition to supervising people and processes, you will be directly responsible for batching and producing beverages to established recipes, ensuring accuracy, consistency, quality, and compliance at all times. This role requires a high level of attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to accurately measure, record, and track all recipe additions.
You will work closely with the Operations Manager to ensure production targets are met, quality standards are maintained, and the facility operates safely and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
Hands-On Manufacturing & Production
* Manufacture alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in accordance with established recipes and SOPs
* Accurately measure, add, and record ingredients during batching and production
* Maintain detailed records of recipe additions, batch sheets, and production data
* Ensure product consistency, quality, and traceability across all batches
* Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot production equipment as required
Operations & Leadership
* Assist the Operations Manager in overseeing daily production operations
* Lead from the floor, supporting Foremen, operators, and casual staff
* Ensure production lines are set up, cleaned, and ready for on-time start-ups
* Manage efficient changeovers of filling and packing equipment
* Conduct and oversee CIP and internal equipment cleaning in line with SOPs
* Train and support production staff in equipment operation, batching, and safety
* Step into higher-level operational responsibility as required
Quality, Safety & Compliance
* Maintain strict adherence to OH&S, GMP, HACCP, and FDA standards
* Conduct quality checks and ensure products meet internal and customer specifications
* Ensure all ingredients, raw materials, and packaging are correctly handled and stored
* Promote a strong safety culture and lead by example
Continuous Improvement
* Identify and implement improvements to production efficiency and reliability
* Support autonomous maintenance to reduce planned and unplanned downtime
* Assist in resolving production issues quickly and effectively
* Contribute to process improvements as the business continues to grow
About You
You are a hands-on operator first and leader second —someone who is comfortable measuring ingredients, running batches, operating machinery, and solving problems on the floor.
You are organised, detail-driven, and understand that accurate recipe execution is critical to product quality and customer satisfaction. You enjoy mentoring others and leading by example in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Skills, Experience & Requirements
* Minimum 5+ years' experience in beverage manufacturing
* Proven experience in hands-on production, batching, and recipe execution
* Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately measure and track ingredients
* Experience operating filling and packing equipment
* OH&S supervisor experience and strong safety focus
* Solid understanding of GMP, HACCP, and FDA requirements
* Basic mechanical and electrical knowledge (trade background advantageous)
* Physically fit and capable of hands-on production work
* Strong communication skills across all levels of staff
* Ability to work independently and as part of a leadership team
* Flexible to work additional hours when required
* Ability to meet production targets in a fast-paced environment
* Current forklift licence (essential)
* Must have Australian work authorisation at the time of application.
* Current forklift licence required
Why Join DRINK_X?
* Hands-on leadership role with real responsibility on the production floor
* Clear career progression to Operations Manager
* Direct access to owners and senior leadership
* Work in a growing, innovative beverage manufacturing business
* Supportive, family-run workplace culture
Quality of life, work / life balance
Applications Close Feb 10th, 2026
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