Manager, Technical Services - FFS​/Preform

Manager, Technical Services - FFS/Preform

At Danone North America, we are dedicated to achieving world‑class manufacturing performance through strong leadership, innovation, and continuous improvement. As the Manager, Technical Services – FFS/Preform, you will play a key role in driving technical excellence across our manufacturing network, focusing on packaging systems, equipment reliability, and site capability. This position is essential for supporting productivity, quality, and agility goals, while fostering a culture of proactive problem‑solving and skill development.

You will support the integration of best practices from Danone operations and leading external CPG organizations to strengthen our technical capabilities and ensure our manufacturing systems are ready for the future.

• Support the execution of the Manufacturing Technical Optimization strategy for FFS/Preform platforms by developing team capability, aligning on standards, and resolving technical issues.
• Assist in developing and implementing contingency plans for equipment failures and supply disruptions to minimize operational risks and ensure supply continuity.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Innovation teams on new capacity installations and packaging innovations to ensure smooth integration with current systems.
• Utilize advanced analytics and digital tools (e.g., IoT, predictive maintenance) to monitor equipment performance and inform maintenance decisions.
• Provide technical support at manufacturing sites to resolve issues impacting performance and throughput.
• Ensure packaging material specifications are compatible with equipment capabilities and performance standards.

• Help design and deliver training programs for key manufacturing equipment, partnering with HR & L&D to build frontline technical skills.
• Promote best practice sharing across sites to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and raise technical standards.
• Lead or participate in technical workshops and forums to encourage continuous learning and innovation.

• Support the management of relationships with equipment suppliers, technology partners, and service providers to ensure access to innovative solutions and reliable support.
• Contribute to supplier development and co‑innovation efforts to meet evolving manufacturing needs.
• Partner with other functions such as Engineering, HR, MCLs, R&I, Procurement, Plant Teams, and PMO to deliver operational and learning objectives.

The salary range for this position is $110,000 – $140,000 USD. The exact salary offered will depend on several factors, including the candidate's relevant experience, geographic location, internal equity, and market conditions. Danone North America additionally offers a performance‑based bonus and has a strong benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, 401(k) Plan, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Time Off, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave, among other benefit plan options.

To give our employees flexibility, Danone is a hybrid work environment.

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Packaging Science, or a related technical field preferred. Non‑degreed considered if exhibited 8‑10+ years technical packaging experience in manufacturing.
• 7‑10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, technical services, or engineering roles within a food and beverage CPG environment; with emphasis on preform cup, Form‑Fill‑Seal equipment and materials.
• Demonstrated success in supporting technical optimization programs across multiple sites.
• Experience with TPM, IWS, Lean, and digital manufacturing tools.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate data into actionable insights.

• Solid technical foundation with hands‑on corporate and plant experience.
• Experience optimizing packaging lines.
• Familiarity with TPM, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing.
• Proficiency in Excel, Power BI, and SAP.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to work across functions and resolve differing opinions within teams or with…