Project Manager - Packaging Commercialization, Large Capital Projects

job purpose: 

The Project Manager Packaging Commercialization has accountability for successfully commercializing packaging associated with large capital projects. Responsibility extends from pre-engineering through final acceptance. This role will own commissioning of equipment and packaging materials on large capital projects. The Project Manager Packaging Commercialization will have strong experience in packaging materials and equipment to drive standardization, set up, performance specs, and acceptance of projects.

responsibilities: 

• Support pre-engineering phase with spec packet preparation, sample preparation, performance specs, and alignment on validation formats 

• Support design phase in providing inputs to OEM selection, packaging supplier performance, and packaging supplier selection

• Support procurement in qualification of any packaging material changes, packaging vendor changes, lab equipment sourcing, and tools needed by Operations associated with large capital projects

• Support FAT plans to confirm packaging performance specs are being met, materials are onsite, and punch lists are closed out. 

• Lead onsite packaging commissioning activities to include (pre trial meeting, trial plan, trial schedule coordination, trial execution, trial report, and post-trial action completion

• Lead onsite acceptance testing with clear communication on performance against contracted terms. 

• Support documentation turnover and maintenance of dimensional specs, material specs, and performance specs

• Partner with other functions such as Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to pilot and transition ownership 

skills/qualifications required: 

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering with 7+ years of experience packaging machinery, packaging materials, or high‑speed manufacturing environments

• Knowledge of aseptic and high speed beverage filling desired 

• Experience leading FAT/SAT, equipment commissioning, aseptic validation, and mechanical qualification

• Strong project management capabilities with strong organizational skills

• Lean/Six Sigma background in developing centerlines, mistake proofing, and troubleshooting 

• Experience collaborating with OEMs and suppliers to influence successful outcomes with equipment and packaging material performance 

working conditions and physical requirements:

• Sitting/Standing/Walking: Stands, walks, and sits during completion of job responsibilities.

• Lifting/Carrying: Occasional lifting requirements as job demands. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. on an occasional basis.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced high demand production facilities and the ability to be able to perform those duties.

food safety requirements:

• Notify supervision of any repairs or adjustments that are required that may affect product quality or food safety.

• Understand, observe, and comply with the handling and usage of the color-coded container policy while in the Production Areas.

• Perform all duties necessary to meet Company, Customer and/or Government requirements/standards as prioritized by the Company.

• Ability to initiate action to prevent the occurrence of nonconformities relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the product, processes, quality system, or safety system.

• Identify and record any problems relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the ingredients, processes, quality system, or safety system.

• Control further processing or delivery of nonconforming product in terms of Food Safety and Quality issues until the deficiency or unsatisfactory condition has been corrected.

• In the event of absence, another employee with the same skill level will assume the duties and responsibilities as required.

how fairlife nourishes you:

At fairlife, we believe in better — and that includes how we support our people. We offer a comprehensive suite of benefits and wellbeing resources designed to support you physically, emotionally, socially, and financially, both in and out of work.

• 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

fairlife’s nour!sh program is designed to meet you where you are — supporting your individual wellbeing journey while enabling you to do your best work every day.

position location: Coopersville, MI

reports to: Director of Engineering, Packaging and Warehouse

travel requirements: up to 50% 

salary range: $100,000 - $140,000

exempt/nonexempt: exempt

Base pay range: 100000 - 140000 USD