Construction Project Manager

As Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), a leading cooperative dedicated to advancing dairy production and innovation. We are seeking an experienced Construction Project Manager to oversee general contractors in the execution of high-cost, high-complexity dairy plant construction projects. This role demands deep expertise in industrial construction, particularly in food processing facilities, to evaluate project feasibility, manage intricate builds involving specialized dairy systems, and deliver results that uphold our commitment to quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

The ideal candidate will ensure seamless integration of high-hygiene environments, regulatory compliance, and cutting-edge dairy technologies while managing multimillion-dollar budgets and timelines.

Quality milk and dairy products start on the farm and continue at Superior Dairy. At MMPA, our dairy farm families work with pride and care every day to produce wholesome, nutritious dairy products. Our commitment to quality continues onto the next step, as our member milk is bottled or processed into dairy products. MMPA bottles our milk in Canton, Ohio at MMPA's wholly owned subsidiary, Superior Dairy. Originally established in 1922, Superior Dairy is loyal to their Great Lakes roots while distributing their products to 44 states.

Why You'll Love Working Here:

• Competitive Salary
• Health & Wellness Benefits
• Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Retirement Benefits
• Growth Opportunities
• Employee Appreciation
• Wellness Initiatives
• Employee Feedback

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee dairy plant construction projects from inception through commissioning, including site preparation, structural builds, and equipment installation.
• Scope large-scale projects by defining requirements, assessing structural needs, and collaborating with engineers, architects, and dairy specialists to address complexities like fluid handling systems, refrigeration, and clean-in-place (CIP) infrastructure.
• Prepare and review detailed cost estimates for high-value projects, encompassing specialized materials (e.g., stainless steel, sanitary piping), labor, and equipment, while optimizing for cost efficiency without compromising food safety standards.
• Manage competitive bidding processes, negotiate contracts with general contractors and subcontractors, and ensure alignment with MMPA's cooperative values and project specifications.
• Enforce compliance with all relevant codes, including USDA, FDA, OSHA, and dairy-specific regulations, while prioritizing worker safety and environmental sustainability in high-complexity builds.
• Monitor project schedules, budgets exceeding $10M, and progress milestones; provide regular updates and reports to MMPA leadership and stakeholders.
• Perform on-site inspections at dairy plant locations to verify construction quality, resolve technical issues, and mitigate risks associated with high-stakes industrial environments.
• Foster strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and internal teams to support MMPA's mission of enhancing milk processing capabilities.
• Other duties as assigned, such as contributing to long-term facility planning or integrating sustainable practices like energy-efficient systems.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of construction management experience, with a proven track record in overseeing general contractors on industrial projects, ideally in food or dairy processing.
• Demonstrated expertise in scoping and estimating large-scale construction projects ($10M+), including value analysis to ensure optimal contractor estimates and project outcomes.
• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, materials (including those for hygienic and corrosion-resistant applications), and pricing in high-complexity settings.
• Proficiency in reading blueprints, engineering plans, and technical specifications for large-scale dairy facilities.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, with experience managing vendor relationships, supply chain challenges, and on-site disputes.
• Strong communication abilities to lead cross-functional teams and handle multiple high-cost projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel to MMPA sites across Michigan (up to 50%), with a valid driver's license.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field; PMP certification or equivalent highly valued.
• Experience with dairy-specific builds, such as milk receiving bays, pasteurization lines, or wastewater treatment systems in cooperative or agricultural settings.
• Familiarity with sustainable construction practices (e.g., LEED) and dairy industry trends, aligning with MMPA's focus on environmental stewardship.
• Builder's license or specialized certifications in industrial hygiene or food facility construction.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each responsibility satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the responsibilities.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of responsibilities that are required of the role. Responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

MMPA provides the opportunity for meaningful work that makes a difference in the dairy industry and in our communities. The diverse talents and perspectives of our employees help us to meet the needs of our member farms and the customers we serve.

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States.

MMPA is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and productive environment for all employees as one of our top priorities. As part of our commitment to your well-being and workplace safety, all applicants are required to undergo a drug screening and background check as part of the hiring process.

We are not accepting unsolicited candidate introductions, referrals, or résumés from third-party recruiters or staffing agencies for this position.

MMPA is an equal opportunity employer.

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