Project Manager

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

AMPI owns six Midwest-based manufacturing plants where 10 percent of the nation’s American-type cheese and processed cheese is produced. The cooperative’s award-winning cheese and powdered dairy products are marketed to foodservice, retail and food ingredient customers. In 2019, the co-op launched its Dinner Bell Creamery brand and accompanying Co-op Crafted promise, highlighting more than 50 years of dairy farm families partnering with skilled cheesemakers.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time:

1. Develop and manage projects in areas that pertain to the processing of raw milk, secondary processing of milk products, and other non-operational areas.
2. Plan and direct improvement projects. Identify and resolve problems in a timely manner by gathering and analyzing information skillfully. Lead group problem solving situations.
3. Work with management, employees and corporate functions on project planning involving business growth, process improvement, innovation, quality improvement, and safety.
4. Lead cross functional teams comprised of various departments to gain consensus and execute on business projects.
5. Facilitate training as necessary. Conduct assessments to identify asset deficiencies; execute corrective action as required.
6. Prepare and submit budget estimates, progress reports and cost tracking reports. Closely manage project budgets to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
7. Perform cost and benefit analysis for various design alternatives.
8. Communicate professionally with all staff to share and develop technical knowledge.
9. Maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers to evaluate material, software, program and equipment selections.
10. Provide regulatory updates and technical information in all areas pertaining to equipment design, Food Safety and packaging to AMPI’s processing centers.
11. Develop and assist management in written cost justifications of capital expenditure projects.
12. Provide assistance in solving operational and non-operational problems.
13. Trouble shoot equipment and controls systems.
14. Evaluate equipment design and fabrication to ensure compliance with state, federal, environmental and safety regulations.
15. Understand and comply with all Quality Assurance policies. Immediately report and take action on any potential food safety issues.
16. Understand and adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
17. Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering, Business, Construction Management or related field preferred, equivalent experience may be considered.
• 3 years of related work experience required.
• Prior experience in food and dairy manufacturing is required.
• Prior experience in project management, estimating, or design is required.
• Knowledge of SQF, HACCP, GMP’s, OSHA and loss control programs preferred.

BENEFITS/REWARDS

AMPI offers competitive starting pay, PTO, 401k, short-term disability, health, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance programs and more.

Associated Milk Producers Inc. (AMPI) is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Military service members, veterans, and qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.