Sr. Project Manager, Automation

Job Purpose

The Sr. Project Manager, Automation has accountability for leading efforts in the planning and delivery of large, complex, or multi-location capital projects in, including, but not limited to:
Operational Technology (OT) Infrastructure, Manufacturing automation and Engineering. The role will be responsible for leading and managing complex projects involving the integration of engineering systems, automation technologies, construction activities, and programming solutions. This is a challenging and dynamic role that requires strong leadership, technical proficiency, and exceptional project management skills.

• Project Planning: Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets; define scope, resources, and key milestones.
• Equipment Selection & Procurement: Select and evaluate processing equipment based on capacity, efficiency, quality, and cost; coordinate vendors and manage procurement.
• Process Design & Optimization: Design and improve processing systems; perform mass balances, address bottlenecks, enhance flow, and drive continuous improvement.
• Project Coordination: Partner cross-functionally (safety, production, maintenance, QA) to execute projects, manage resources, and resolve issues.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to food safety and quality regulations; collaborate with regulatory bodies throughout the project lifecycle.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation (design specs, manuals, signoffs, reports); track progress, costs, and provide stakeholder updates.
• Training & Support: Train operations and maintenance teams on new equipment and processes; develop materials and support troubleshooting.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement improvements to reduce milk losses and enhance efficiency, productivity, and product quality.

• Bachelor's degree incontrolsengineeringor related discipline required.
• 10+ years' experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Aseptic/Dairy experience, including UHT's, homogenizers, separators, filtration plants, mix proof valves, motors, pumps.
• Experience with Automation Products hardware and software product suites (Ignition, Control Logix, Logix 5000, FT View, FT Historian, and Canary Historian).
• Experience with other automation platforms such as Siemens, B&R, GE, Aveva/Wonderware, etc.
• Experience in automation system project delivery and major capital projects including schedule and cost management.
• Able to understand and utilize engineering drawings, operating manuals, and blueprints to conduct business.
• Ability to update P&'s, mechanical/electrical prints (CAD/Solid Works preferred)
• Skilled in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Ability to make administrative and procedural decisions and judgements on sensitive, confidential issues.
• Ability to supervise and train staff, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Knowledge of computerized information systems used in quality assurance, maintenance, and ERP applications.
• Knowledge of USDA, State, Federal regulations for a dairy manufacturing facility a plus.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective day one!
• Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)
• Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance
• Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)
• Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support
• 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match
• Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability
• Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)
• Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)
• Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential
• Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource…