Project Manager

Oterra•Sturtevant, WI

About The Position

Oterra is seeking an experienced Capital Project Manager to lead end-to-end execution of large-scale capital expenditure (CapEx) projects supporting our food, beverage, and ingredient manufacturing operations. This role will drive complex plant expansion projects from design through commissioning, ensuring processing systems meet the highest standards for food safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial) or related field
7+ years of experience managing CapEx projects in food, beverage, or ingredient manufacturing environments
Proven experience overseeing plant expansions or greenfield/brownfield construction projects
Hands-on knowledge of processing equipment such as wet blending systems, dry powder handling, and thermal processing (pasteurization, sterilization, etc.)
Strong understanding of hygienic design principles and food safety/sanitary equipment standards (3-A, EHEDG, or similar)
Demonstrated experience managing A&E firms, general contractors, and equipment vendors through full project lifecycle
Working knowledge of OSHA regulations, environmental compliance standards, and corporate EHS requirements
Strong budget management, scheduling, and risk management skills
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with ability to present to executive leadership
Proficiency with project management and scheduling tools (MS Project, Primavera, Smartsheet, or similar)

Nice To Haves

PMP certification preferred

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end CapEx execution for large-scale food, beverage, or ingredient manufacturing plant expansions
Oversee the design, installation, and commissioning of complex processing equipment, including wet blending and dry powder handling systems
Manage the integration of advanced thermal processing systems to ensure food safety and quality standards
Partner with engineering, quality assurance, and operations teams to integrate strict hygienic design protocols
Manage third-party engineering firms, general contractors, and specialized equipment vendors
Maintain rigorous adherence to OSHA, environmental standards, and internal corporate safety guidelines
Develop and manage detailed project schedules, budgets, and scope across all phases of capital project delivery
Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders including operations, quality, EHS, engineering, and finance to align on project priorities and milestones
Track and report on project performance (cost, schedule, safety, quality) to executive leadership and steering committees
Identify and mitigate risks related to equipment procurement, construction, permitting, and startup
Support commissioning, qualification, and validation activities to ensure smooth transition from construction to operations