Project Manager

Job Title: Project Manager – Automated Packaging Equipment

Location: Chicago, IL

Hire Type: Direct Hire

Target Pay Rate: $110K - $130K

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the installation of new automated equipment at our state-of-the-art flour product manufacturing facility. This $5M project involves installing advanced packaging machinery to automate flour product production, with a targeted start-up by July 2025. You will play a key role in managing equipment installation, coordination with vendors, and ensuring that the facility meets its operational goals on time.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the installation and startup of packaging automation equipment (VBA - Blueprint Automation) for manufacturing flour products for a food manufactor.
• Manage the integration of 5 Delta Robots (600 cases per hour) into the production line, ensuring alignment with production needs and schedules.
• Coordinate with OEMs to secure competitive quotes (seeking 1-2 alternatives) for automation equipment valued at $1-2M each.
• Ensure the timely procurement and installation of case erectors, sealers, labelers, and Platz palletizers (potentially out of scope but critical to the project).
• Lead the full project lifecycle from planning through to execution and start-up, ensuring alignment with the July 2025 target date.
• Communicate and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including contractors and equipment vendors, to ensure smooth project flow.
• Plan and coordinate future scaling of the automation process to additional locations in Chicago and Indianapolis if the initial project is successful.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience managing automation and packaging equipment installations in manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of automated packaging equipment, particularly systems like VBA (Blueprint Automation) and Delta Robots.
• Exceptional project management skills, with a focus on meeting timelines and ensuring equipment lead times are accounted for (11-month lead time from OEM).
• Experience working with multiple OEMs and managing vendor relationships, including procurement of alternative bids.
• Knowledge of supporting equipment such as case erectors, sealers, labelers, and palletizers.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.