R&D Food Processing Technician - Onsite

Title: R&D Food Processing Technician - Onsite

Mandatory skills:

R&D, R&D labs,
food processing,
GMP, GMPS, lab, lab safety, food lab,
product innovation, product development,
hammer milling, milling equipment, milling operation, milling technology, milled ingredients,
lab activities, baking, frying, seasoning application, sample analysis, packaging,
lab supply inventory, inventory control, customer service,
extrusion equipment, dies, heaters, additives, screws,
Delta System, Micro, WinLims, Data processing, MS Suite,
Manufacturing, PO, purchasing, finances, process equipment, pilot plant, plant trials, shipping,
Regulatory, sensory evaluations, analytical testing, test product coordination, testing management,
materials, samples, safety, equipment maintenance, sanitation standards, allergen management

Description:

A responsible and enthusiastic individual to support R&D product innovation/development team, duties include but not limited to the following:
Acquire practical knowledge of hammer milling equipment and operation and safety.
Assist product developer(s) in preparing hammer milled ingredients.
Gain practical understanding of key characterization techniques for particulate techniques (flours, meals and similar) including, particle size, moisture and hydration, segregation, density. Others.
Get familiar and assist product developer with client extrusion equipment (dies, heaters, additives, screws), GPC trial requirements and test runs for both Crunchy and Puffs.
Interact effectively with product developers, operators, other technicians and associates to organize, materials, samples, and other resources connected to the project, including further development for client application of the in-line milling technology.
Ensure labs comply with GMP guidelines and established operating sanitation standards including allergen management and maintain labs according to AIB, Regulatory & internal client Standards. Participate as a member of the safety committee and the food GMP committee to assure compliance in the labs.
Actively participate in WCL to promote new and improved ways of working, finding creative solutions to logistics and tactical challenges
Consumer test product coordination and shelf-life testing management other than preparing, shipping, or submitting samples for tastings, sensory evaluations and analytical testing.
Support the product development team on various lab activities like baking, frying, seasoning application & sample analysis and packaging, such as other than executing bench formulation as designed by product development scientists, running process equipment as needed and supporting pilot plant and plant trials.
Maintain up-to-date equipment list and assist in identification of new equipment.
Coordinate outside service of equipment maintenance as needed.
Manage ingredient and lab supply inventory (receiving, registration on system, inventory control, etc), as well as look for innovative and time saving ideas for the team to improve functionality and time management in the lab.
Manage product and materials storage both in the lab and at R&D s warehouses.
Be the point person for specifications and other crucial documents for incoming materials.
Maintain the schedule of activities in the labs in alignment with the team priorities. Must work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Must have ability to partner with colleagues to manage day to day priority changes.
Demonstrates high sense of urgency for results.
Provides excellent customer service.
Contributes to training and development of others.
Effectively and independently manages time and priorities.
Delta System, Micro & WinLims sample submissions
Coordinate shipping both locally & internationally in support of PD and Lab
Manage POs including communication and partnership with vendors and purchasing & finances
Manage T&E associated to the role s needs
Manufacturing experience is a plus
Other projects as assigned by Manager
Data processing (MS Suite) input, organization, and interpretation as well as other development computer systems
Some travel required to support product developers and engineers (25%)

Requirements:
AAS Science / Engineering (or equivalent) & R&D labs experience; or 3+ years in food processing
Computer proficiency required
Strong verbal and written communication skills required
Good organizational and time management skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to change
Knowledgeable of GMPS and lab safety

VIVA USA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining a professional working environment that is free from discrimination and unlawful harassment. The Management, contractors, and staff of VIVA USA shall respect others without regard to race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, physical, mental or sensory disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or status as a Vietnam-era, recently separated veteran, Active war time or campaign badge veteran, Armed forces service medal veteran, or disabled veteran. Please contact us at for any complaints, comments and suggestions.

Contact Details :

VIVA USA INC.
3601 Algonquin Road, Suite 425
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008