Process Optimization Manager - Cheese

Grande•Fond du Lac, WI

10h

About The Position

We’re seeking a technically skilled, data driven leader to elevate our cheesemaking operations across our Enterprise at Grande. The Process Optimization Manager – Cheese will drive continuous improvement, reduce process variability, and standardize best practices while partnering closely with Cheesemakers, Operations, Quality, and Engineering. This role blends scientific expertise, Lean Six Sigma methodology, and hands on project leadership to enhance quality, efficiency, and consistency Enterprise wide.

Requirements

4 Year Bachelors Degree or other advanced degree in Food Science or other related field required. An emphasis in Dairy Technology preferred. An equivalent level of experience may be considered.
Minimum of five (5) or more years’ experience in producing dairy products which must include working with cheese making equipment and quality related systems.
Experience with conducting laboratory testing and procedures in relation to dairy products is required.
Cheesemakers License Preferred.
Certifications preferred: Pasteurizer Operator Certification and Six Sigma, Black Belt Certification.
Ability/willingness to travel to other Grande facilities approximately 40% of the time, based on project needs.
Proficient in using statistical tools (Mini Tab, SAS or equivalent).
Experience in and able to carry out projects using project management process (write charters, create Gantt charts in MS project, Trial plans, analyze data, report writing).
Possess broad knowledge and understanding of technical fundamentals, principles, practices, and procedures, continuing to acquire higher level knowledge and skills.
Experienced professional with theoretical knowledge who can apply technical concepts in practical applications.
Ability to analyze problems/issues of diverse scope and considerable difficulty and determine solutions.
May serve as lead; acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience.
Understands and is proficient with statistical analysis tools and software.
Ability to apply six sigma tools and methodologies.
Advanced computer skills in MS Office Suite.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously; define and maintain focus on department objectives balanced with project and other department needs
Knowledge of and ability to work safely in laboratory and production setting along with ensuring the safety of others in the same environment.
Ability / willingness to continue to build competencies through continued education and classes like chemistry, apply dairy chemistry, food science and or other foundational learning classes that provide base and technical knowledge as it relates to cheese making.
Champion new ideas and creatively apply new approaches to resolve project issues.
Help the organization stay current with applicable new technologies.

Responsibilities

Lead enterprise-wide continuous improvement and standardization of cheesemaking processes
Train and mentor teams in Lean Six Sigma, statistical tools, and best practice decision making
Manage technical projects, including lab analyses, pilot trials, and data driven process improvements
Collaborate cross functionally to enhance quality, reduce variability, and improve operational performance