James Pavelka
About James Pavelka
James Pavelka is a Facilities Manager at US Foods, with extensive experience in maintenance and operations management across various companies. He holds a Master's degree in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management, and has a strong background in ensuring operational efficiency and compliance in production environments.
Current Role at US Foods
James Pavelka serves as the Facilities Manager at US Foods in Billings, Montana, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he oversees compliance with fire suppression systems and elevator regulations. He conducts various audits, including BRC, IFS, sanitation, and insurance audits, ensuring that the facilities meet industry standards. Pavelka manages a team of 7-22 direct reports, maintaining staffing schedules for maintenance shifts and ensuring operational efficiency across production lines.
Previous Experience in Maintenance Management
Prior to his current role, James Pavelka held several positions in maintenance management. He worked as a Maintenance Supervisor at CSM Bakery Solutions from 2019 to 2021, where he utilized CMMS software to monitor team efficiencies. He also served as a Maintenance Manager at SnackCo Of America for four months in 2021. His earlier experience includes a decade-long tenure as a Superintendent at The Horsley Company from 2000 to 2010, where he developed skills in managing maintenance operations.
Education and Expertise
James Pavelka earned a Master's degree in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management from Ashford University, graduating with high honors in 2016. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Business/Managerial Economics from the same institution, completed in 2014. His education is complemented by certifications such as the Ammonia Operator Certification from GPAC Garden City. Pavelka employs methodologies like root cause analysis, lean logistics, and various problem-solving techniques in his professional practice.
Professional Development and Certifications
Throughout his career, James Pavelka has pursued professional development opportunities to enhance his skills. He has been recognized by Sigma Beta Delta and Golden Key International for his academic achievements. His expertise in maintenance management is further supported by his knowledge of EPA guidelines for tracking refrigeration loss and his ability to collaborate effectively with contractors and production teams.
Career Timeline and Progression
James Pavelka's career spans multiple roles in maintenance and management. He began as a Maintenance Technician at Smith Distributing Co, where he worked for nine years from 2010 to 2019. After that, he transitioned to various roles, including Maintenance Supervisor at CSM Bakery Solutions and Maintenance Manager at SnackCo Of America. His diverse experience has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of facilities management, leading to his current position at US Foods.