Manager, Process Technology – Powders

Description

Manage personnel and process related initiatives in support of the Ingredient Solutions business unit. The role is responsible for optimization and innovation of products, processes and/or packaging. These initiatives include the optimization and innovation of products and processes, including the commercialization of new products and the maintenance of existing products and processes. The role validates usage rates of rework in existing products. Finally, the role provides technical support to cross functional teams working on (strategic) capital projects.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Lead the process technology team to effectively plan and execute process initiatives related to spray dried products. Review, prioritize, and assign projects. Set clear direction by clearly communicating and reinforcing expected outcomes with the team
  • Build collaborative relationship with research and development (R&D) scientists. Understand production processes and flag any potential problems to R&D scientist at early development states
  • Scale-up of line extension products (e.g., functional dairy powders, process modifications)
  • Scale-up of production scale runs of new products and new processes as handed off by R&D
  • Develop written instructions for scale-up trials to be handed off to operations teams
  • Finalize product documentation including specifications
  • Conduct asset evaluation
  • Conduct mass balance verification related to Stage Gate projects
  • Commission equipment/process validation following new equipment installation
  • Maintain products and processes including secondary ingredient supplier validation
  • Verify shelf-life of existing products
  • Identify rework opportunities and acceptable usage levels
  • Identify and validate alternate ingredients
  • Identify and implement cost savings related to process, materials, and packaging
  • Identify and implement yield improvements
  • Identify and commission alternate asset utilization
  • Commission co-man opportunities
  • Utilize analytical skills to collect and analyze data from multiple sources
  • Exhibit flexibility and adaptability when working on multiple projects
  • Provide routine updates on status of projects and initiatives
  • Communicate verbally and in writing with those throughout the organizational structure
  • Actively promote safe work behaviors and hold oneself accountable for following safety rules and regulations

The 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.

Location

  • Springfield, Missouri

Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

Education and Experience

  • B.S. / B.A. in Food Science or related field; advanced degree preferred​
  • 6+ years of dairy products manufacturing experience, with emphasis on evaporation and spray drying technology; 10+ years preferred
  • 1+ year experience supervising others
  • Training and experience with continuous improvement fundamentals
  • Well-developed network with professionals in the dairy industry, universities and research institutes
  • Certification and/or License – N/A
  • Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • In-depth understanding of food chemistry, microbiology and dairy processing​
  • In-depth understanding of plant operations and manufacturing processes, including spray drying experience
  • Knowledge of laboratory methods and full understanding of process and formulation on food safety
  • Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management
  • Skill in leadership and coaching
  • Skill in analytical thinking
  • Ability to effectively use laboratory and pilot plant scale equipment
  • Ability to effectively solve problems and make decisions
  • Strong written and verbal communication and influencing skills
  • Desire to continually learn and improve skills and knowledge level
  • Knowledge of project management tools and techniques
  • Knowledge of continuous improvement tools and techniques
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills with ability to prioritize and plan work
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI, and SharePoint
  • Knowledge of SAP and OpenText
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer​

 

For additional information, please contact Liz Pereira, (954) 428-3888 or lizp@foodscience.com.