Senior Pilot Plant R&D Technician – Food Innovation

CJ Schwan's; Marshall (MN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Time off programs

Retirement plan

Job summary

CJ Schwan’s in Minnesota is seeking a Production Lab Technician to operate and maintain the pilot plant, ensuring instruments are calibrated and documentation is complete. You will coordinate with Product Development and Process Engineering to train on new processes, develop experimental formulas, and evaluate improvements.

The role includes supporting commercialization and mentoring staff. The base salary is $26 per hour with a comprehensive rewards package including health benefits, time off

Qualifications

• Associate degree (AA) or equivalent work experience.
• 3+ years of related experience.
• Good working knowledge of manufacturing practices.
• Knowledge of FDA, USDA, and OSHA regulations.
• Familiarity with safety and testing procedures and pilot plant equipment.
• Proficient with Windows and basic PC software.
• Ability to operate and calibrate R&D lab instruments.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain pilot plant equipment and keep documentation.
• Maintain maintenance and sanitation records.
• Schedule and coordinate lab inspections to maintain certifications.
• Coordinate with Product Development and Process Engineering to train on new processes.
• Develop experimental formulas or processing techniques under guidance.
• Evaluate formulas and processes for cost savings and improvements.
• Support commercialization of new products, including installation and shakedown of new equipment.
• Mentor and train technicians in equipment operation and maintenance.
• Provide data gathering support for pilot plant projects.
• Oversee operations and maintenance of pilot plant equipment.
• Place purchase orders and coordinate ingredient delivery.
• Document work and prepare project status reports.
• Develop and implement efficiency programs to meet goals.
• Provide technical support to Product Development and Operations.

Skills

Manufacturing practices

Regulatory knowledge

Laboratory equipment operation

Quality control

Windows PC skills

Documentation

Education

Associate degree (AA) or equivalent

Job description

CJ Schwan’s in Minnesota is seeking a Production Lab Technician to operate and maintain the pilot plant, ensuring instruments are calibrated and documentation is complete. You will coordinate with Product Development and Process Engineering to train on new processes, develop experimental formulas, and evaluate improvements.

The role includes supporting commercialization and mentoring staff. The base salary is $26 per hour with a comprehensive rewards package including health benefits, time off