Project Specialist EPMO at Simmons Prepared Foods, Inc. in Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Job Description:

Purpose of the Position

The Project Specialist is responsible for supporting the administrative project management activities of the enterprise project management organization. This role ensures that project plans are updated, financial forms are properly assembled and submitted with quotes, meeting minutes are properly captured and assists with creation of supporting documentation related to the projects. The successful candidate will bring project management experience and processes in facility construction, engineering, and/or manufacturing. Responsible for understanding Simmons' business, industry and trends.

Essential Position Responsibilities - This is a Salary Exempt position.

Project Management: Responsible for supporting project management activities, including but not limited to: project meeting scheduling and facilitation, updating existing detailed project plans, maintaining project data in a portfolio system of record, status reporting, and ensuring proper artifacts are produced. Demonstrates a working understanding of Waterfall, Iterative and Agile Project Methodologies. Interfaces with the internal business teams and 3rd party vendors to schedule and update on various activities related to the project.

Leads the organization to accomplish quality performance and deliver on expectations regarding functionality, timeliness and cost in a manner that meets or exceeds customer expectations. Counsels with the Managers to validate comprehensive implementation plans and work schedules. Effectively monitors the execution, control, and reporting of projects. Advises on resource changes or additions to support projects.

Works closely with Engineering, IT and other teams. Provides leadership to ensure product development and support teams work collaboratively with other IT, vendor and business teams ensuring adherence to architecture and security standards, tracking metrics and continuous improvement standards.

Participates as a member of the Team . Participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons' established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies, LEAN); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position's role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.

Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As required by visiting facility.

Travel: Approximately 20% travel, including travel to Simmons facilities, one to two offsite classes or conferences per year. Must have or be able to obtain a passport.

Technical Experience: 1-3 years project management experience. Knowledge of project management disciplines necessary to run projects. Fluent in use of Microsoft Project, and Microsoft Office Products. Excellent interpersonal, listening, oral and written communication skills. Excellent analytical skills, as well as accuracy and attention to details.

Industry Experience: Preference for food or pet food processing organization.

Minimum Education : Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science or related field, or 4 years related experience.

Preferred Education : Related Master's degree.