R&D Pilot Plant Technician

Actalent•Minneapolis, MN

52d•$21 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

Join our dynamic team as an R&D Pilot Plant Technician, where your primary focus will be on grinding, dicing, handling, and processing raw and cooked meat in a state-of-the-art facility. This role is pivotal to our Pet department, working within air-conditioned meat rooms that may contain various odors. Support various operations across different business platforms to expand capabilities for future development. Work in a pilot plant production environment alongside food product developers, test kitchen staff, and production staff. This role involves manual work and heavy lifting, with tasks including sanitization before and after production runs. The division comprises 10-15 different pilot plants, including fruit snacks, dairy, pet food, grains and bars, and cereal. Collaborate with Food Scientists to innovate and test new food products. This position offers the opportunity to gain valuable food science knowledge and work closely with lab and food scientists.

Requirements

High School Degree required.
3-5 years of directly relatable experience or a 2-Year Degree preferred.
Ability to lift, manipulate, and transport up to 55 lbs.
Basic computer and technology skills, including Office Suite.
Strong communication skills with peers and customers.
Basic understanding of food safety and human safety.
Ability to work in hot, warm, or cool conditions within the plant.
Steel Toe Boots/Shoes required.
Exposure to common allergens including milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame.

Nice To Haves

2-Year Science Degree or 4-Year Science Degree preferred.
Exposure to food science, dairy science, nutrition, or related coursework is advantageous.

Responsibilities

Safely operate equipment while adhering to food safety requirements and performing risk assessments.
Conduct basic analytical tests, troubleshoot issues, and build skills in basic unit operations.
Adapt and flex across teams within a platform as work needs shift.
Perform equipment sanitation and basic equipment setup activities.
Develop technical skills in product, process, and/or packaging.
Consistently lift, manipulate, and transport ingredients or equipment weighing up to 55 lbs.
Operate mixing and grinding equipment.
Follow COHE procedures and use hand tools and instructions for equipment setup.
Perform operator quality checks, moisture content tests using NIR, and temperature readings using a thermometer.