Cheese Technical Process Manager

Rapidly growing, multi-plant cheese manufacturer based in Washington (state). 

Key Responsibilities and Goals:

• Subject matter expert responsible for the management of company’s cheesemaking process, partnering across commercial, supply chain and cheese plant operations team. 
• Optimize cheese production operations to ensure quality and yield targets are met. Provide support and guidance in all cheese product and process technical demands.
• Manage product and process trials.
• Contribute to the site-wide continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist cheese operations to ensure equipment sanitation is 100% compliant with internal expectations, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Manage supplier and vendor documentation (raw materials, food contact packaging, ingredients, bulk fluid suppliers etc.).
• Work with the Technical Services and QA teams.
• Bring best practices and consultation to the design and layout of new and modified plant processes and equipment.
• Work with plant operations team to manage starter programs (bulk starter and direct vat set).

Competencies Needed for Success:

• 7+ years’ experience in a Technical, Operations, or Quality Assurance function in a Cheese manufacturing facility.
• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Engineering or related discipline; or an equivalent level of expertise based on a combination of qualifications and experience.
• Cheesemaker and HTST Pasteurizer Operator license, preferred.
• HACCP and PCQI certified, preferred. 

Compensation/Benefits: 

• Salary range: $120,000 – 150,000 
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with competitive employer match.
• Employer paid life & disability coverage.
• PTO and paid holidays
• Education and employee assistance programs.
• Relocation package.

 Recruiter Information:
Joe Sommerfeldt
joes@kinsa.com