Senior R&D Pilot Plant Technician - Hands-On Ops & Testing

The J.M. Smucker Co.; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Co. in Orrville is seeking a Senior Technician for our R&D Pilot Plant to support coffee process research by safely operating pilot-plant equipment and executing experimental test plans, collaborating with cross-functional teams.

This onsite role emphasizes safety, data capture, and continuous improvement, with hands-on responsibilities, equipment maintenance, and active participation in QA/HSE programs to ensure high-quality results at the Orrville facility.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Engineering Technology or related field required, combination of education/experience considered.
• Experience with operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting processing, pilot plant, or lab equipment (3+ years).
• Knowledge of SOPs, LOTO, and JSA processes.

Responsibilities

• Set up and safely operate Process Laboratory equipment; train R&D employees on safe equipment operation
• Lead execution of test plans by reviewing plans, confirming material and equipment readiness, collecting accurate data, summarizing results, and reporting deviations or equipment issues
• Troubleshoot operational and equipment challenges and recommend process or equipment improvements
• Maintain and update SOPs, JSAs, and LOTO documentation as needed
• Follow QA and HSE requirements to maintain a safe, compliant, and high‑quality pilot plant environment.
• Share daily work updates and communicate effectively with peers and project teams
• Serve as Process Laboratory area owner with responsibility for housekeeping and ensuring ongoing compliance with HSE and QA standards
• Manage operating supply inventory and submit purchase requisitions as needed
• Coordinate with external resources on new equipment installation and Process Laboratory maintenance
• Complete required internal and external training to maintain and build technical capabilities

Skills

Process Equipment Operation

Test Plan Execution

Data Collection & Reporting

Safety Compliance

Communication Skills

MS Office

Education

Associate's degree in Engineering Technology

Tools

Process Laboratory Equipment

JSA Documentation

QA Documentation Systems

Job description

The J.M. Smucker Co. in Orrville is seeking a Senior Technician for our R&D Pilot Plant to support coffee process research by safely operating pilot-plant equipment and executing experimental test plans, collaborating with cross-functional teams.

This onsite role emphasizes safety, data capture, and continuous improvement, with hands-on responsibilities, equipment maintenance, and active participation in QA/HSE programs to ensure high-quality results at the Orrville facility.