Project Manager

Company Description

Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages, dietary supplements, and pet food. With over 140 years of expertise, we believe nature got it right the first time. Join our fast-growing, international team and help us make natural, healthy food accessible worldwide.

Job Description

General Summary

Oterra is seeking an experienced Capital Project Manager to lead end-to-end execution of large-scale capital

expenditure (CapEx) projects supporting our food, beverage, and ingredient manufacturing operations. This

role will drive complex plant expansion projects from design through commissioning, ensuring processing

systems meet the highest standards for food safety, quality, and operational excellence, while ma

• Lead end-to-end CapEx execution for large-scale food, beverage, or ingredient manufacturing plant expansions
• Oversee the design, installation, and commissioning of complex processing equipment, including wet blending and dry powder handling systems
• Manage the integration of advanced thermal processing systems to ensure food safety and quality standards
• Partner with engineering, quality assurance, and operations teams to integrate strict hygienic design protocols
• Manage third-party engineering firms, general contractors, and specialized equipment vendors
• Maintain rigorous adherence to OSHA, environmental standards, and internal corporate safety guidelines
• Develop and manage detailed project schedules, budgets, and scope across all phases of capital project delivery
• Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders including operations, quality, EHS, engineering, and finance to align on project priorities and milestones
• Track and report on project performance (cost, schedule, safety, quality) to executive leadership and steering committees
• Identify and mitigate risks related to equipment procurement, construction, permitting, and startup
• Support commissioning, qualification, and validation activities to ensure smooth transition from construction to operations

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial) or related field; PMP certification preferred
• 7+ years of experience managing CapEx projects in food, beverage, or ingredient manufacturing environments
• Proven experience overseeing plant expansions or greenfield/brownfield construction projects
• Hands-on knowledge of processing equipment such as wet blending systems, dry powder handling, and thermal processing (pasteurization, sterilization, etc.)
• Strong understanding of hygienic design principles and food safety/sanitary equipment standards (3-A, EHEDG, or similar)
• Demonstrated experience managing A&E firms, general contractors, and equipment vendors through full project lifecycle
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations, environmental compliance standards, and corporate EHS requirements
• Strong budget management, scheduling, and risk management skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with ability to present to executive leadership
• Proficiency with project management and scheduling tools (MS Project, Primavera, Smartsheet, or similar)

Additional Information

What We Offer

At Oterra, we take care of our people – because when you’re supported, you can do your best work. Our benefits are designed to support your health, your future and your life outside of work:

• Health & Well-being: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance.
• Financial Security: A retirement savings program with 401(k), company match, and bonus program.
• Time for You: Paid holidays, vacation time, and personal/sick days each year.
• Engagement in the Workplace: Monthly employee engagement events and team celebrations
• Growth & Empowerment: A collaborative culture that encourages career growth and professional development opportunities

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Oterra is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, ancestry, national origin, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status (unless required by the applicable law or government contract), disability or protected veteran status or any other status or characteristic protected by law. Oterra is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are committed to building a team that represents diverse and inclusive backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. Oterra will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.