Dairy Pilot Plant Project Coor

Universities of Wisconsin•River Falls, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Dairy Pilot Plant Project Coordinator plans, analyzes, manages, coordinates, and tracks projects and quality improvement efforts for processes, procedures, and systems. This role provides management consulting to improve organizational results within the Animal and Food Science department at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in Dairy Science or closely related discipline.
Demonstrated expertise in leading successful projects.
Valid Driver's License.
Knowledge of and experience in computer software.
Ability to accurately record information and develop reports.
Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to ensure compliance with food safety rules and regulations.
Effective problem solving, analytic and organizational skills.
Ability to communicate and interact constructively with supervisor, faculty, fellow staff members, students, and the public.
Knowledge of the proper and safe operation of processing equipment.
Ability to exercise sound judgment in work-related decision making.
Ability to perform routine maintenance of sanitation and food processing equipment, including the proper and safe use of tools used in equipment repair and maintenance.
Demonstrated knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions and ability to observe general workplace safety practices.

Nice To Haves

Master of Science in Dairy Science or closely related discipline
Experience in an academic setting
Ability to professionally assist faculty in research activities
Commercial Driver's License
HACCP and WI Pasteurizer Certified
State of WI Cheesemaker License

Responsibilities

Develops, schedules, coordinates, and prioritizes project work plans in accordance with specifications and resource limitations.
Monitors progress toward project goals; adjusts schedules, priorities, and resources to ensure successful completion.
Develops, enhances, and maintains operational standards, systems, and best practices to support project, retail, and production teams.
Analyzes data and trends to compile progress and performance reports; provides appropriate conclusions and actionable recommendations.
Establishes, monitors, coordinates, and controls project budgets versus actual expenditures and budget reporting.
Serves as the initial point of contact for projects; represents project interests through active participation in meetings, committees, and stakeholder engagements.
Collaborates with the Plant Manager to schedule dairy plant production aligned with retail sales, short course needs, and research or pilot trials.
Coordinates with faculty and external clients to align plant operations with research objectives and client trial requirements.
Assists with the execution of plant trials as needed, working under the direction of the Plant Manager.
Organizes and oversees sensory panels and taste-testing sessions for Falcon Creamery products and client projects; collects and analyzes participant feedback for quality improvement.
Determines operating hours, assesses staffing needs, and supervises student workers to ensure efficient operations.
Manages student employee recruitment, interviews, onboarding, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) orientation.
Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training checklists to ensure Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) compliance.
Maintains inventory records and coordinates product ordering with the Plant Manager.
Oversees the retail food safety plan, ensuring regulatory compliance and timely updates.
Serves as primary contact for customers, vendors, and stakeholders, facilitating clear communication.
Identifies and develops retail sales opportunities, including specialty products and seasonal promotions.
Expands online sales with options for pick-up, delivery, and shipping.
Supports wholesale and large-scale retail client engagement, managing orders and fulfillment.
Serves as the primary liaison for short course students, presenters, and affiliated stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and support.
Coordinates course agendas and presentation materials with presenters; prepares participant binders and other instructional resources.
Manages vendor relationships to fulfill course-related requirements, including catering, lodging, and off-campus event venues.
Collaborates with the Plant Manager to review and update instructional content, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
Delivers instruction of short course material to enhance participant learning.
Supports the identification of new course topics and contributes to the development of syllabi and comprehensive course content.
Partners with the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) to design and implement a Dairy Processing Certificate Program.