Thermal Processing Lab Technician – Heat & Data

Campbell Soup Company; Camden (NJ); On-site; USD 49,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

The Thermal Processing Lab Technician at Campbell Soup Company will execute heat penetration tests, prepare test containers, operate retort systems, and collect data to support product development and process validation.

You will work with Thermal Process Specialists and product developers, perform product evaluations, and maintain a clean, safe lab and process space while following established procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma with 1+ years of experience in a thermal processing laboratory, QA, or analytical testing environment; OR bachelor's degree in a science-related field.

Responsibilities

• Execute heat penetration testing under the direction of a Thermal Process Specialist, with emphasis on accurate test container preparation, retort loading and operation, temperature measurement, data collection, and complete test documentation.
• Perform product and package evaluations using quantitative measurements and qualitative observations, including assessment of product appearance, physical attributes, and changes before and after processing.
• Maintain laboratory and process room readiness by organizing tools, instruments, work-in-progress materials, and supplies; supporting routine equipment checks; and ensuring work areas remain clean, safe, and prepared for testing.
• Work safely and effectively in a pilot plant or process room environment, including loading retorts with product, operating high-pressure steam retorts, working in hot and loud conditions, and occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Communicate with product developers and other stakeholders to ensure products, containers, test materials, and preparation steps align with approved test requirements.
• Use specialized data acquisition software and laboratory instruments to collect, monitor, and review test information during processing; identify potential issues and elevate concerns when testing does not appear to be proceeding as expected.
• Ensure testing is performed according to established procedures and that all observations, measurements, deviations, and results are documented accurately, neatly, and completely.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and the ability to follow standardized procedures while using common laboratory instruments such as scales, pH meters, Bostwick consistometers, temperature measurement devices, and product or package analysis tools.
• Apply basic mechanical aptitude when working with equipment, fittings, tools, wires, oils, grease, fasteners, and other materials commonly used in laboratory and pilot plant testing.
• Collaborate in shared work areas and complete routine tasks related to test set-up, food product analysis, test material assembly, teardown, cleaning, and organization.
• Use sound judgment, clear communication, and effective interpersonal skills when coordinating work with technical staff, product developers, and other laboratory users.
• Maintain a strong teamwork mindset, including willingness to support others, adjust work plans as priorities change, and contribute to group testing objectives.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High school diploma or bachelor's degree in a science-related field

Tools

pH meters

Scales

Bostwick consistometer

Temperature measurement devices

Data acquisition software

Job description

The Thermal Processing Lab Technician at Campbell Soup Company will execute heat penetration tests, prepare test containers, operate retort systems, and collect data to support product development and process validation.

You will work with Thermal Process Specialists and product developers, perform product evaluations, and maintain a clean, safe lab and process space while following established procedures.