Pilot Plant Technician (Cottage Grove, MN)

3M•Cottage Grove, MN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Pilot Plant Technician will join the Chemical Process Development Center (CPDC) within 3M’s Global Chemical Operations organization. The CPDC bridges the Specialty Materials Development Laboratory and full-scale manufacturing facilities during new product scale-up. The role involves setting up, operating, and maintaining pilot-scale chemical processing equipment, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to manufacture experimental quantities of chemicals and materials in a safe working environment. The position is based in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, with travel that may include up to 5% domestic or international travel. Relocation assistance is not authorized. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without employment visa sponsorship. The role may involve access to information and technologies subject to U.S. export-control laws.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED or higher, completed and verified before starting.
At least one year of experience operating chemical or food processing equipment in a pilot and/or manufacturing facility.
At least one year of experience in a pilot or manufacturing setting.
Legally authorized to work in the country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status.

Nice To Haves

Two-year technical degree or higher from an accredited university.
At least three years of chemical processing experience in manufacturing or pilot plants.
Flexibility to work shifts outside the normal schedule, including days, afternoons, midnights, and weekends, for special projects as needed.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Willingness to work in an environment where a wide range of chemicals are handled.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and maintain pilot-scale chemical processing equipment on a five-day schedule.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manufacture experimental quantities of chemicals and materials while maintaining a safe working environment.
Use mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
Adapt to rapidly changing requests and assignments.
Transport and handle chemicals in a variety of packaging configurations.
Comply with corporate policies, procedures, and security standards while performing assigned duties.
Follow safety policies, identify hazards, and contribute to continuous improvement and a strong Environmental Health and Safety culture.