Project Manager

ABOUT UDA:
UDA is a local, family-owned, dairy cooperative committed to serve the needs of our members, community, and customers by providing high quality milk and dairy products. As the only milk marketing co-op in the state, UDA oversees the production, processing, and marketing of Arizona's finest milk products from farm to Retail in 48 hours or less. From sweet cream and butter to non-fat dry milk, UDA provides milk products to manufactures and supermarket chains throughout the Grand Canyon State.

Our motto at UDA is "United in Excellence." The dairy industry's success isn't built on one dairy or brand, it's built on the community as a whole - this includes our amazing employees. When you join UDA, you're not just joining a business, you're joining a family. Since 1960 UDA has been headquartered, operated, and managed in Arizona. We strive to provide our employees with rewarding career opportunities aimed at long-term stability, growth, and advancement. We put our heart and soul into our products and value our team who show up, every day and do the work.

Job Summary/Objective:
The Project Manager will play a crucial role in leading and managing various projects within our dairy manufacturing facility. This individual will be responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. The Project Manager will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency, improve processes, and implement best practices in dairy manufacturing.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Project Planning and Execution:
   • Develop project plans, including scope, objectives, timelines, and resource allocation.
   • Coordinate with stakeholders to define project deliverables and requirements.
   • Execute project plans, monitor progress, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure successful completion.
2. Resource Management:
   • Allocate resources effectively to support project objectives.
   • Collaborate with department heads to assign tasks and responsibilities to team members.
   • Ensure adequate staffing levels and resource availability throughout the project lifecycle.
3. Risk Management:
   • Identify potential risks and obstacles that may impact project success.
   • Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
   • Monitor and address risks throughout the project lifecycle to minimize disruptions.
4. Quality Assurance:
   • Establish quality standards and ensure adherence throughout the project.
   • Conduct regular inspections and quality checks to maintain product integrity.
   • Implement corrective actions as needed to address quality issues and deviations.
5. Communication and Collaboration:
   • Foster open communication and collaboration among project team members and stakeholders.
   • Provide regular updates on project progress, milestones, and challenges.
   • Facilitate meetings, workshops, and presentations to gather feedback and align objectives.
6. Continuous Improvement:
   • Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains within the manufacturing facility.
   • Lead initiatives to streamline workflows, optimize resource utilization, and reduce waste.
   • Drive a culture of continuous improvement and innovation across the organization.

Qualifications:
General Skills & Abilities needed to complete job successfully:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Proven experience in project management within the manufacturing industry, preferably in food or beverage processing.
• Strong understanding of food and beverage manufacturing processes, equipment, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Project, JIRA).
• PMP certification or equivalent is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and effectively manage competing priorities.

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental & Vision plans
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer match
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Health & Wellness Programs
• Paid Time Off
• Shift Pay Differential
• Education Assistance
• On-site Fitness Center
• On-Site Health Clinic

The duties and responsibilities described are not a comprehensive list; employees may be subject to additional, or altered, tasks and the scope of the role may change as necessitated by business demands. UDA will not consider any application submissions from unauthorized third-parties, consulting, or external staffing firms and will not be held subject, or liable, to any terms, fees, or penalties associated with a submission.

UDA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.