Pilot Plant Technician - Chicago, IL

VetJobs•Chicago, IL

13d•$49,575 - $69,405•Onsite

About The Position

This manufacturing position plays a key role in bringing products to life by operating pilot plant equipment, maintaining a clean and sanitary production environment, and supporting the safe and efficient operation of equipment and processes. The work contributes to quality, safety, and innovation. The role requires in-person attendance and flexibility to support production schedules, effective communication, real-time problem solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives. Schedules may vary and are subject to change.

Requirements

General mechanical abilities up to and including using complex tools
Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
Ability to operate and maintain equipment safely
Ability to use complex equipment in an effective manner
Excellent interpersonal skills to foster a positive team environment
Self-starter, self-motivating
Ability to maintain a safe working environment through proper housekeeping and safety practices
Foster a positive and inclusive work environment where team members feel respected, valued, and empowered to contribute
Demonstrate a commitment to excellence through innovative thinking, continuous improvement, and strong attention to detail
Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing priorities, and meet critical deadlines
Strong project management skills with experience coordinating multiple projects simultaneously
Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with equipment vendors and cross-functional partners
Experience with Microsoft Office, SAP or other similar ERP system
Knowledge of and experience adhering to Quality standards and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) within a food processing environment

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or Associate degree highly preferred

Responsibilities

Operation of various processing equipment (confectionary equipment) with support from pilot plant technicians producing various samples for internal and external use as requested by R&D
Assist in maintaining equipment in good sanitary and working condition
Perform preventive maintenance on equipment
Execute trials on pilot scale equipment
Follow SSOP, CIP and COP procedures
Maintain a safe, clean, and sanitary work area (cleaning floors, walk in coolers, sinks, etc. when necessary)
Adhere to GMP and other safety regulations
Organize supplies and maintain records of all inventories (chemical/equipment/ingredients)
Maintain security and confidentiality of information within the research and development and quality group
Understands and demonstrates the company’s core values
Chemical testing: ATP, Pathogens, Allergens (soy, diary, wheat, gluten, etc.)
Alchemy and food safety training
Key member of safety team as sugar representative
UW online candy school
Food Safety Compliance team
Warehouse labelling, organization, and tracking
Waste Tracker Form
Putting together action plans for agreed upon improvements
Ordering of ingredients and raw material (as well as tracking)
Daily, Weekly, Monthly Checklist: 56 additional tasks outside Plant Trials