Project Operations Manager

Want to learn how to make juice? Lassonde Pappas & Co. is a US Leader in beverage manufacturing dedicated to our team members, customers and consumers satisfaction. We remain committed to our small-town roots and rural values. Hardworking and caring are qualities that make our teams special. Since 1942, we've been producing delicious products for our customers across the country!

To provide the best for our customers, we focus on building the best team by creating and advancing an inclusive environment amongst our diverse workforce. If you're passionate about customer satisfaction, reliable, and committed to being and doing better, join us!

We value each of our employee's total wellbeing. To support employees in all stages of their wellness journey, we have a robust benefits program including: medical, dental, and vision coverage options, growth and development potential, along with 401-K, Life & Disability Insurance, PTO, Tuition Reimbursement, Health Fairs, Gym Membership Discounts, and so much more!

Pay Range for this position is: $155,000-$230,000 plus annual bonus, depending on experience.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Project Operations Manager oversees the planning, set-up, and launch of the new manufacturing facility, coordinating all aspects of equipment installation and process development to hire and train staff to ensure a safe and efficient production launch. Key responsibilities include establishing initial production goals and plans, managing resource allocation, overseeing quality control and safety compliance, and leading teams through the entire startup process to achieve production targets.

This position is not remote. The position is 100% on-site during the construction, start-up, and, at a minimum, first year of operation of the new facility.

The Project Operations Manager's primary will be repsponsible for driving performance in the manufacturing process through continuous improvement to deliver and sustain profitable growth once the new plant is running production. This position will also be responsible for assisting the Plant Manager in the development of the plant's strategy. This position is also responsible for the Food Safety and Food Quality programs.

This manager will work closely with the Plant Manager to direct and manage the day-to-day operation of the facility.

Primary Responsibilities include:

• Project Planning & Execution:
• Work with Engineering to develop comprehensive plans for factory setup, including equipment layout, material flow, and production schedules, and manage their execution to meet timelines.
• Resource Management:
• Procure necessary ancillary equipment, materials, and tools, and ensure their proper installation and operation.
• Team Leadership:
• Evaluate skill level of current staff to identify gaps. Then, oversee the hiring and training of staff fill the gaps to successfully start-up the factory.
• Process Development:
• Establish and document standard operating procedures, implement quality control systems (like ISO 9001), establish spare part list and management, and input and establish OEM preventive maintenance procedures
• Supplier & Partner Relations:
• Negotiate with suppliers for cost-effective solutions, ensure on-time delivery of materials, and manage relationships with vendors.
• Safety & Compliance:
• Enforce strict safety policies and environmental regulations to create a safe working environment for all employees before, during, and after start-up
• Cross-Functional Communication:
• Collaborate effectively with other departments, such as engineering, procurement, supply chain, logistics, and HR, to support the successful launch of the factory.
• Develops and leads the implementation of operational initiatives in support of Lean Six Sigma manufacturing (e.g., department utilization improvement, process capability enhancement, customer satisfaction, employee involvement).
• Suggests changes in working conditions and use of equipment to increase efficiency.
• Sets and communicates standards, deploys resources, and achieves clear and measurable performance expectations for the operation.
• Communicates, implements, and assures compliance with governmental rules and regulations, as well as, Company plans, programs, policies, and procedures involved with the conduct of a safe, clean, environmentally sound, and efficient operation.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of manufacturing experience in technical, maintenance, or production departments.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or technical degree
• Experience in the food/beverage industry
• Leadership and Communication:
  Strong ability to motivate and direct teams, communicate effectively with all levels of staff, and resolve conflicts.
• Technical Knowledge: understands manufacturing processes, equipment, and quality control systems. Needs to have experience in Food and Beverage manufacturing
• Change management - People - has used a structured…