Whey Plant Manager

The Whey Plant Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operation and overall performance of the whey processing department, which produces high-quality Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC 80). This position oversees all membrane filtration systems (UF, RO, and NF) and drying operations to ensure consistent production, optimal yield, and compliance with all safety and quality standards. The Whey Plant Manager provides strong leadership to the whey operations team and collaborates closely with other departments to achieve production goals and continuous process improvements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Direct and coordinate whey processing operations including ultrafiltration (UF), reverse osmosis (RO), nanofiltration (NF), and drying systems used to produce WPC 80.

· Create a streamline process for shipments of Cream, Permeate and other whey products leaving in liquid tankers.

· Work closely with chemical providers to ensure cleanability of membrane units and reduce chemical usage.

· Ensure product consistency, yield optimization, and efficiency in the concentration and drying processes.

· Develop and maintain operating parameters and process control standards to achieve target protein concentrations and product quality.

· Manage, train, and develop whey department supervisors, operators, and support staff.

· Oversee daily scheduling and coordination with cheese plant operations to ensure steady whey flow and processing efficiency.

· Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to ensure all finished WPC 80 meet internal, customer, and regulatory standards.

· Oversee CIP operations and sanitation procedures for all whey systems to maintain hygienic design and regulatory compliance.

· Monitor process performance data, yields, and efficiency metrics; prepare and present reports and improvement recommendations.

· Partner with maintenance to ensure equipment reliability, preventive maintenance, and minimal downtime.

· Participate in capital planning, process optimization projects, and commissioning of new equipment.

· Ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, USDA, and environmental regulations while promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

· Collaborate cross-functionally with production, maintenance, and quality teams to resolve process issues and drive long-term improvements.

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field preferred.

· Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in whey processing, including membrane and dryer operations.

· Prior experience in the production of WPC 80 or similar high-protein whey products strongly preferred.

· At least 2 years of leadership experience in a dairy or food manufacturing environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Deep understanding of membrane separation technologies (UF, RO, and NF) and spray drying principles.

· Proven ability to optimize processes for yield, quality, and energy efficiency.

· Strong leadership and coaching skills with experience managing multi-shift operations.

· Working knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and food safety systems.

· Analytical and data-driven approach to troubleshooting and decision-making.

· Proficient in Microsoft Office and comfortable working with process automation systems (PLC/SCADA).

· Excellent communication and organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to work in production environments with variable temperatures, humidity, and noise.

· Must be able to stand for extended periods, climb stairs, and occasionally lift to 50 pounds.

Schedule and Compensation

· Full-time, salaried position.

· May require extended hours, weekends, or holidays as needed to meet production schedules.

· Competitive salary and benefits package based on experience and qualifications.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $120,000