Senior Project Manager, Processing

Job Purpose

The Sr Engineering Project Manager - Process has accountability for delivering Processing projects associated with the Processing work stream on time and in budget for large capital projects. Responsibility includes facilitating collaboration between Engineering and Operations stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Review project scope, including budget and schedule analysis, and identify potential scope gaps.
• Own project budget, timeline, risk assessments, and cost forecasting.
• Serve as the primary liaison between internal stakeholders, vendors, partners, and operations teams.
• Coverage of equipment delivery, site access, shutdowns, installation, commissioning, and startup support.
• Ensure vendor deliverables meet project requirements and fairlife quality and performance standards.
• Participation in factory acceptance testing (FAT), punch list development, and project closeout activities.
• Partner cross-functionally (Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain) to pilot and transition projects into operations.
• Support integration of PLCs, HMIs, and processing equipment systems.
• Lead plant fit-out execution (e.g., signage, workstations, lab equipment, safety barriers) and provide regular project updates to stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain engineering documentation, technical databases, turnover packages, and ensure compliance with EHS and regulatory standards.

Skills/Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical Engineering preferred).
• 10+ years of industrial manufacturing experience (dairy, food & beverage, or liquid processing preferred).
• Strong knowledge of aseptic/sanitary design, FDA/PMO requirements, and environmental/safety regulations.
• Deep understanding of utility systems (steam, boilers, glycol, cooling towers, RO, electrical) and ability to read P&IDs.
• Proven experience managing capital and commercialization projects across the full project lifecycle.
• Strong leadership and collaboration skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders.
• Solid cost management, budgeting, forecasting, and business case development skills.
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in SharePoint, Microsoft Office, and AutoCAD for project tracking, data analysis, and documentation.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• 8-10 hours sitting/standing/walking
• Work will be in active construction and equipment start up areas. Understanding of risks and safety requirements is an essential job function.

How fairlife Nourishes You

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective day one!
• Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)
• Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance
• Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)
• Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support
• 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match
• Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability
• Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)
• Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)
• Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential
• Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource Groups

Position Location

Coopersville, MI

Reports to

Director of Engineering

Travel Requirements

20-30%

Exempt/Nonexempt

Exempt