Senior Pilot Plant Technician, R&D & Process Innovation

The J.M. Smucker Company; Orrville, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, OH is seeking a Senior Technician for the R&D Pilot Plant to support Coffee Process Research Lab operations. This on-site role focuses on safely operating process equipment, executing test plans, and collaborating with R&D teams to advance new processing capabilities.

You will set up equipment, lead tests, collect data, and report deviations while maintaining SOPs and QA/HSE compliance. A technical degree and hands-on manufacturing experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree or related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 3+ years of experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting process, pilot plant, or laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of SOPs, LOTO, and JSA processes.
• Experience executing test plans, collecting data, and supporting process improvements.
• Ability to troubleshoot independently and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and safely operate Process Laboratory equipment; train R&D staff on safe operation.
• Lead execution of test plans; confirm material readiness, collect data, summarize results, report deviations.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and recommend process or equipment improvements.
• Maintain SOPs, JSAs, and LOTO documentation; ensure QA and HSE compliance.
• Share daily updates and coordinate with project teams.
• Manage operating supply inventory and submit purchase requisitions as needed.
• Coordinate with external resources on new equipment installation and maintenance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Clear communication

Data collection

Organization

Problem solving

MS Office

Education

Associate's degree in Engineering Technology or related field

Tools

Process equipment operation

Forklift

Electric pallet jack

Job description

The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, OH is seeking a Senior Technician for the R&D Pilot Plant to support Coffee Process Research Lab operations. This on-site role focuses on safely operating process equipment, executing test plans, and collaborating with R&D teams to advance new processing capabilities.

You will set up equipment, lead tests, collect data, and report deviations while maintaining SOPs and QA/HSE compliance. A technical degree and hands-on manufacturing experience are essential.