Reference #: 23511Under direction of the Plant Manager, conduct process related initiatives in support of the manufacturing plant. Be responsible for the optimization and innovation of products and processes, including the commercialization of new products and the maintenance of existing products and processes. Support other plants in the area based on priority. Provide technical support to cross functional teams working on (strategic) capital projects.

　　Job Duties and Responsibilities:

　　Execute process improvement initiatives related to cheese and concentrate making and its related processes. Focus on product quality, formulation management, yield improvement and reduction of lossesBuild collaborative relationship with research and development (R&D) scientists. Understand production processes and flag any potential problems to R&D scientist at early development statesScale-up line extension products (e.g., process modifications, alternate packaging, enhanced functional properties)Scale-up production runs of new products, new processes as handed off by R&DDevelop written instructions for scale-up trials to be handed off to operations teamsFinalize product documentation including specificationsAssist in asset evaluationAssist in mass balance verification related to strategic projectsValidate new equipment/process during new equipment installation/commissioningMaintain products and processes including secondary ingredient supplier validationIdentify rework opportunities and acceptable usage levelsIdentify and validate alternate ingredientsIdentify and implement cost savings related to process, materials, and packagingIdentify and implement yield improvementsIdentify and commission alternate asset utilizationUtilize analytical skills to collect and analyze data from multiple sourcesExhibit flexibility and adaptability with scheduling and travel when working on multiple projectsProvide routine verbal and written updates on status of projects and initiativesActively promote safe work behaviors and hold oneself accountable for following safety rules and regulationsThe requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned.Education and Experience:

　　B.S. / B.A. in Food Science or related field; advanced degree preferredDairy products manufacturing experience, with emphasis on cheese making, HTST systems and Fermentations are a plus; 3+ years preferredTraining or experience with continuous improvement fundamentalsCertification and/or License - N/AKnowledge, Skills and Abilities

　　In-depth understanding of food chemistry, microbiology and dairy processingIn-depth understanding of plant operations and manufacturing processes, including Cheese Making , Fermentation and Dry Blending systems.Ability to utilize Data Capture Programs with which to improve various manufacturing processes.Have the Ability to utilize Data Based systems to drive Continuous Improvement through the various Manufacturing Systems we employ.Knowledge of laboratory methods and full understanding of process and formulation on food safetyAbility to effectively use laboratory and pilot plant scale equipmentAbility to effectively solve problems and make decisionsAbility to work in a team environment but can also work independently with minimal supervisionStrong written and verbal communication and influencing skillsDesire to continually learn and improve skills and knowledge levelKnowledge of project management tools and techniquesExcellent written and oral communication skills.Excellent organizational skills with ability to prioritize and plan workProficiency in Microsof Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI, and SharePointFlexibility to travel up to 50% of time (25-30% normal)Knowledge of SAP and OpenText, preferredMust be able to read, write and speak EnglishTravel: 25% - 50% (up to 1 -2  weeks per month)

　　An Equal Opportunity Employer

　　EEO/AA/Female/Minority/Disabled/Veteran