Sr. Supervisor - Facility & Pilot Plant (ONSITE, Mt. Prospect, IL)

Mizkan America • Mount Prospect, IL

237d • $82,400 - $117,000

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day operations of our facility and pilot plant within the R&D department. This role is critical to ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of research and development activities for scientists and engineers. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a solid background in facility management, and a deep understanding of pilot plant operations for a food and beverage company.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related field or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in facility management and/or pilot plant operations.
• Knowledge in Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Microbiology, Sanitation, Chemical Safety, Pest Control, and Quality Systems.
• Understanding of and align with government regulations relating to OSHA, FDA, UDA, and EPA.
• Strong working knowledge of food processing and facility utility systems and equipment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Knowledge of safety and regulatory requirements in an R&D environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of Acidified, LACF, thermal processing, fermentation, or Acetation processing is a plus.
• Mechanical and/or Electrical certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the proper maintenance and functionality of the R&D facility, including equipment, utilities, and infrastructure.
• Oversee the scheduling of preventive maintenance and calibrations and coordinate repairs and upgrades as necessary with external contractors.
• Manage facility cleaning and sanitation protocols to maintain a hygienic and safe working environment.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and emergency procedures.
• Optimize lab space allocation to accommodate ongoing research projects and team needs.
• Plan and oversee facility expansions or reconfigurations to support new research initiatives.
• Ensure the daily operation and maintenance of boilers, pumps, and water feed systems.
• Ensure the daily operation and maintenance of compressed air systems.
• Ensure the daily operation and maintenance of refrigeration and HVAC systems.
• Monitor and manage facility-related budgets and expenses.
• Ensure execution of site Quality systems and HACCP programs.
• Create maintenance and facility work orders and purchase orders.
• Supervise the daily operations of the pilot plant, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate scheduling of pilot plant trials and experiments, working closely with research scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Ensure proper documentation and reporting of pilot plant activities and results.
• Support all areas & duties as needed including but not limited to microbiology testing, swabbing, administrator, shipping and receiving.
• Lead and manage SOPs and update as necessary.
• Manage Technicians, providing guidance, training, and support.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to team members.
• Develop and enforce safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections.
• Plan and execute facility and pilot plant projects, including equipment installations, upgrades, and modifications.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure project timelines and objectives are met.
• Provide regular updates on project status and progress.

Benefits

• Full range of medical, dental, vision insurance.
• 401K plus up-to-four percent (4%) match.
• Profit sharing.
• Wellness program.
• Paid parental leave.
• Long-term-care insurance.
• Critical accident insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability.
• Education assistance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
• Education Level: Associate degree