Pilot Plant R&D Technician — Trials & Quality Impact

Kraft Heinz; Warrendale (OR); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Kraft Heinz is seeking a Pilot Plant Technician to execute trial plans, operate pilot plant machinery, and manage packaging and processing steps across one to two pilot plants. The role emphasizes food safety, product quality, and timely trial documentation, with opportunities to learn across multiple lines and platforms.

Responsibilities include setup/teardown, equipment self-checks, maintenance requests, sanitation duties, and clear communication with leaders and partners to ensure smooth

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3 to 5 years of relevant manufacturing, food production, pilot plant, or similar operation environment experience required.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills required.
• Ability to complete production documentation and learn to use required digital systems.
• Ability to work autonomously within standard work, while using judgement to elevate non-standard issues.

Responsibilities

• Carry out pilot plant operations following established policies and standards for product quality, GMP compliance, and safety.
• Support successful day-to-day execution and completion of production trials.
• Be accountable for on-time trial set-up, tear-down, and routine operation during assigned trials.
• Perform machinery and equipment self-checks and carry out initial troubleshooting during trial execution.
• Complete required trial, production, and related operational documentation.
• Submit maintenance work orders and order materials needed for trial support.
• Support sanitation, swabbing, and related food safety and quality activities as required.
• Communicate workstation needs, project status, and trial issues to pilot plant leaders, developers, and relevant partners.
• Balance multiple work activities and accommodate changes in trial timing or schedule.
• Escalate non-standard process, equipment, or execution issues appropriately.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Technician Manager, including support across pilot plant areas as needed.

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Kraft Heinz is seeking a Pilot Plant Technician to execute trial plans, operate pilot plant machinery, and manage packaging and processing steps across one to two pilot plants. The role emphasizes food safety, product quality, and timely trial documentation, with opportunities to learn across multiple lines and platforms.

Responsibilities include setup/teardown, equipment self-checks, maintenance requests, sanitation duties, and clear communication with leaders and partners to ensure smooth