Technician, R&D, Pilot Plant

Kraft Heinz • Glenview, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction and supervision of the Pilot Plant Quality and Sanitation Program Manager, the Pilot Plant Quality Technician is responsible for the day-to-day execution of pilot plant quality activities. Employees are responsible for understanding the relevance and importance of their activities in contributing to food safety and reporting situations that may impact food. This role involves performing pilot plant duties in compliance with established policies, safety standards, GMP requirements, and food safety and quality guidelines. The technician will learn and be proficient in performing lab tasks for all production areas, including micro and pathogen swabbing, touch plate testing, GMP categories, water & air sample testing, and clean trace swabs. They will develop and maintain records of test results, communicate findings, and escalate serious issues. The role also includes participating in logistical planning for sample collection, working in a lab with bacteria/pathogens, evaluating equipment, ordering and maintaining lab supplies, conducting process audits, and collaborating with developers, other technicians, and maintenance personnel. Training on production equipment, processes, sanitation, and food safety/quality requirements is essential. The technician must be able to inspect equipment and products for cleanliness and foreign material and work across multiple pilot plant production areas.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED Required.
• 1 – 5 years of relevant manufacturing, food production, pilot plant, or similar operation environment experience required.
• Excellent Communication Skills (written, verbal, and presentation).
• Ability to work autonomously within standard work, while using judgement to escalate non-standard issues.
• Ability to learn - must be able to adapt and learn new skills quickly.
• Ability to complete production documentation and learn to use required digital systems.
• Intermediate Computer Skills Required.
• Must have the ability to learn additional EAM and purchase order system (e.g. SAP, Ariba Procurement Buying) requirements as system progresses or applications change.
• Ability to use spreadsheets, databases (e.g. Microsoft, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and analytical tools such as Lablynx / ATP Novalum.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge in HACCP, Microbiology, Sanitation, Chemical Safety, Pest Control, and Quality Systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform pilot plant quality technician duties consistent with planned policies and standards with respect to product quality, GMPs, and safety.
• Support the upkeep and safe operation of all necessary pilot plant lab and calibration equipment.
• Report trouble calls and support lab equipment review.
• Communicate project status to department and cross-functional employees.
• Manage time effectively and meet project deadlines.
• Balance multiple project priorities and accommodate requests or changes in schedule.
• Wear proper PPE, comply with safety training, policies & procedures, and report any unsafe safety conditions to management.
• Safely operate any production equipment and tools.
• Participate in internal and external quality audits as needed.
• Assist in the development of procedures and corrective actions and KHMS activities as needed.
• Complete training on PCQI, HACCP and other relevant courses that support pilot plant and Glenview site quality programs.

Benefits

• Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
• Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
• Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
• 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED