Senior Packaging Project Manager

Lactalis USA; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the dairy sector is seeking a Sr. Packaging Project Manager to oversee packaging projects for yogurt, cheese, and powder products. The role requires collaboration with various departments and managing project budgets, with travel up to 50%. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor's degree in engineering and significant experience in capital projects within the food industry.

Qualifications

• 5 years managing capital expenditure projects, preferably in food industry.
• 3 years supporting USDA or FDA regulated manufacturing.
• Ability to work independently and travel nationally/internationally.

Responsibilities

• Oversee projects related to packaging yogurt, cheese, and powder products.
• Develop project drawings, scopes, budgets, and timelines.
• Coordinate project reviews and communicate results to stakeholders.

Skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

AutoCAD skills

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Organizational abilities

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or chemical engineering

Tools

Microsoft Excel

AutoCAD

Job description

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Job Type

Full-time

Description

Lactalis USA is currently seeking candidates to join our Engineering team in Chicago, IL.

Lactalis, the world leader in dairy, is a family-owned business with more than 85,000 professionals worldwide, committed to nurturing the future by providing healthy and delicious dairy products. Our brands include Galbani, President, Kraft Natural Cheese, Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Parmalat, Siggi's, and Stonyfield Organic, among others imported from Europe.

Our core values of AMBITION, ENGAGEMENT, and SIMPLICITY guide our work. We value diversity and inclusivity and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, sharing their STORY, PASSION, and EXPERTISE.

Lactalis is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on veteran status, race, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or disabilities.

Position Overview

The Sr. Packaging Project Manager will oversee projects related to packaging yogurt, cheese, and powder products, from design through implementation, supporting plant operations and quality. The role involves working with Operations, R&D, and other departments to optimize production systems, with potential involvement in new and existing processes.

The position is based at one of our main manufacturing sites (Londonderry NH, Buffalo NY, Nampa ID, Tullare CA) or in Chicago IL, with travel up to 50% to various plants and vendor sites across the US and internationally.

Key Responsibilities

1. Develop project drawings, scopes, budgets, and timelines.
2. Source vendors, negotiate quotes, and manage project budgets.
3. Coordinate project reviews and communicate results to stakeholders.
4. Manage project execution principles and cross-functional collaboration.
5. Attend factory acceptance tests and lead capital budget development.
6. Travel as needed to support project needs.

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or chemical engineering.

Experience

• At least 5 years managing capital expenditure projects, preferably in the food industry, dairy experience preferred.
• Minimum 3 years supporting USDA or FDA regulated manufacturing and utilities.

Skills & Knowledge

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel; AutoCAD skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to audit and improve machinery.
• Effective communication skills, organizational abilities, and a mindset for continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently and travel nationally and internationally.