A wonderful opportunity to join a dynamic team at a historic organization whose mission for over 100 years has been to help farmers. Reporting to the COO, The Operational Analytics and AI Manager will lead the development and implementation of data-driven strategies to optimize production, supply chain, and quality control processes in a dairy processing environment. This role combines deep analytical expertise with a strong understanding of dairy operations to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance decision-making through AI and advanced analytics. In addition, this role will have an active role in driving the execution of our key CAPEX projects. The role is based at MMPA’s Novi, MI, headquarters but will need to travel to MMPA’s plant network on a semi-regular basis.
The Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a dairy farmer-owned and operated milk marketing cooperative and dairy processor. As the 10th largest dairy cooperative in the U.S., we proudly serve dairy farmers across Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana. With a workforce of around 625 employees spread across four states, MMPA is deeply rooted in the dairy industry. We operate multiple facilities, including the Middlebury Cheese Company in Indiana, Superior Dairy in Ohio, and two SQF Level 3 dairy ingredient plants in Michigan. Our product lineup includes fluid milk, cheese, ultra-filtered milk, ice cream, butter, nonfat dry milk, cream, and condensed skim milk.
Why You’ll Love Working Here: At MMPA, we believe in investing in our people and fostering an environment where you can grow both personally and professionally. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll enjoy working with us:
- Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive salary to attract the best talent.
- Health & Wellness Benefits: Comprehensive medical coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield, including mental health services to support your well-being.
- Disability Insurance: Protection for you in case of illness or injury.
- Paid Time Off: Enjoy a generous PTO package to maintain work-life balance.
- Retirement Benefits: Secure your future with 401k contributions from us.
- Growth Opportunities: We are committed to your personal and professional development.
- Employee Appreciation: We regularly host events to show our appreciation for your hard work and dedication.
- Wellness Initiatives: Participate in wellness programs designed to help you stay healthy and engaged.
- Employee Feedback: Your voice matters, and we offer forums for your suggestions and input.
Responsibilities:
Analytics Strategy & Execution
- Design and implement analytics frameworks to monitor and improve operational KPIs such as yield, throughput, downtime, and energy usage.
- Develop predictive models for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and maintenance scheduling.
Data Management & Visualization
- Ensure data integrity across manufacturing systems (e.g., MES, SCADA, ERP).
- Build dashboards and reports using tools like Power BI, Tableau, or Looker to provide actionable insights to plant managers and executives.
Project Management
- Support the development and management of project schedules, budgets, and scope where necessary
Risk and Quality Management
- Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies
AI & Machine Learning Integration
- Drive AI initiatives such as computer vision for quality inspection, anomaly detection in processing equipment, and intelligent automation.
- Collaborate with IT and engineering teams to integrate AI models into production systems and IoT platforms.
Data Management & Visualization
- Ensure data integrity across manufacturing systems (e.g., SCADA, ERP, Controls Systems).
- Build dashboards and reports using Power BI to provide actionable insights to plant managers and executives.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with production, quality, supply chain, and finance teams to identify analytics opportunities and implement solutions.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives
Team Leadership & Development
- Foster a culture of data literacy and innovation across the organization.
Education and Work Experience:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Data Science, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in analytics or data science, with at least 2 years in a manufacturing or food processing environment.
- Strong knowledge of dairy processing operations and quality standards (e.g., HACCP, SQF).
- Experience in Power BI, Python, R, SQL, and data visualization tools.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently
- Possess a strong attention to detail
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Possess strong interpersonal skills which includes the ability to effectively communicate with employees, vendors, and customers
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook
