Sr. Packaging Project Manager

Sr. Packaging Project Manager (Chicago, IL)

Responsible for managing and leading projects related to packaging of yogurt, cheeses, and powder products, from design to implementation. Works with Operations, R&D, Quality, Food Safety, Planning, Operations, and Maintenance to optimize production systems.

• Develop drawings, scopes of work, budgets, and timelines to prepare a project for submittal.
• Source vendors, negotiate, and acquire quotes for project investments and budgetary needs.
• Manage projects and track costs, maintaining them within budget.
• Coordinate project review meetings, keep notes, and report results to stakeholders.
• Apply principles for effective project execution.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to meet stakeholder needs.
• Attend factory acceptance tests to validate equipment purchases.
• Lead and assist in developing the annual capital budget.
• Travel as required (up to 50%) and may be required off‑work hours based on project needs.
• Support other management functions as assigned.

Travel required up to 50% of the time to plants in NY, WI, CA, , NH, VT, AZ, TN & MI and to manufacturers/vendors nationally and internationally.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or chemical engineering.

Experience

• 5+ years of capital expenditure project management.
• Experience in the food industry required, dairy process preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of USDA or FDA regulated plant experience supporting manufacturing and utilities.

Specialized Knowledge

• Advanced Excel (macros, pivot tables), AutoCAD (equipment & P&), and Microsoft Office.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to audit, investigate, and improve packaging machinery.
• Effective communication with internal and external customers.
• Prioritization, organization, time management, and follow‑up skills.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to travel to plant and manufacturer sites nationally and internationally.

At Lactalis, we offer a comprehensive total rewards program with a variety of affordable benefits and coverage options, substantial retirement plan contributions, and paid time off from day one. We are committed to your professional growth, providing training, development opportunities, and education reimbursement.

Lactalis is an equal employment opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants on any legally‑recognized basis, including veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disabilities. Any division of the Company that is an affirmative action employer will comply with all related legal obligations.