Operational Technology Lead; Controls and Automation Lead

Operational Technology Lead (Controls and Automation Lead) – Darlington, Wisconsin (US)

Engineering & Technology

We are seeking an experienced Operational Technology (OT) Lead to drive the reliability, security, and optimization of automation systems within a highly automated whey processing facility. This role is critical in bridging plant operations with digital technologies, ensuring high system uptime, regulatory compliance, and continuous process improvement in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Plant Automation & Process Control

• Manage automation systems supporting whey processing operations including filtration (UF/RO/MF), evaporation, drying, crystallization, and CIP systems
• Maintain and optimize PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems to ensure process consistency and product quality
• Ensure proper control of critical parameters such as temperature, flow, pressure, and solids content

System Reliability & Performance

• Maximize uptime for continuous production environments through preventive and predictive maintenance
• Lead troubleshooting of control systems, instrumentation issues, and process disruptions
• Support rapid recovery from system failures to minimize downtime and production losses

Food Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with FSMA, FDA, USDA, GMP, and HACCP standards
• Maintain process data integrity for traceability, audits, and reporting
• Partner with Quality teams to align automation systems with sanitation and product specifications

OT Cybersecurity & Systems Integration

• Implement OT cybersecurity practices and ensure separation between IT and OT systems
• Lead vulnerability assessments and align with frameworks such as ISA/IEC 62443 or NIST
• Integrate plant automation with enterprise systems such as MES, ERP, and LIMS

Continuous Improvement & Digital Transformation

• Drive initiatives to improve yield, efficiency, and resource utilization
• Leverage data analytics and historians for real‑time performance monitoring
• Lead Industry 4.0 efforts including predictive maintenance, advanced process control, and IIoT deployments

• Associate’s degree in Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in industrial automation or OT roles, preferably in food or dairy processing
• Strong experience with PLC programming, SCADA/HMI systems, and industrial communication protocols
• Background in continuous production environments and process control systems
• Experience with instrumentation, CIP systems, and process automation technologies

This role reports directly to the Plant Manager and serves as a key liaison between Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality teams.

You will collaborate cross‑functionally to ensure alignment between plant operations and digital technology initiatives while supporting training and development of operators and stakeholders.

Our team culture is guided by core values:

• We Act With Respect – fostering integrity and professionalism
• We Aim Higher – driving continuous improvement and ownership
• We Succeed Together – collaborating to achieve shared goals

This is a full‑time, salaried position in a dynamic manufacturing environment that requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to safety, quality, and innovation.

An inspiring purpose

Better nutrition for the world and a good living for our farmers, now and for generations to come.

A cooperative culture

Driven by global collaboration, respect, and shared success

A tangible impact

Space to aim higher, with autonomy and a clear focus

Your growth fuels ours

We invest in your personal and professional development through training and education.