Process Technologist/ Process Engineer - Powders

$85,000 - $90,000/Yr

Dairy Farmers of America - Zumbrota, MN

Full-time - Mid Level

Zumbrota, MN

Food Manufacturing

About the position

The Process Technologist/Process Engineer - Powders position at Dairy Farmers of America involves conducting process-related initiatives to support the manufacturing plant under the direction of the Plant Manager. This role is pivotal in optimizing and innovating products and processes, which includes the commercialization of new products and the maintenance of existing products and processes. The position also requires providing technical support to cross-functional teams working on strategic capital projects, ensuring that the manufacturing processes align with the company's goals and standards. Key responsibilities include executing process improvement initiatives specifically related to Spray Drying and its associated processes. The focus will be on enhancing product quality, managing formulations, improving yield, and reducing losses. The role necessitates building collaborative relationships with research and development (R&D) scientists and the Technical Services team to understand production processes and identify potential issues early in the development stages. Additionally, the Process Technologist will be responsible for scaling up line extension products, developing written instructions for scale-up trials, and finalizing product documentation, including specifications. The position also involves validating new equipment and processes during installation and commissioning, maintaining products and processes, and identifying opportunities for rework and cost savings. The successful candidate will utilize analytical skills to collect and analyze data from various sources, provide routine updates on project statuses, and actively promote safe work behaviors within the plant. This role requires flexibility and adaptability, especially when managing multiple projects and travel commitments.

Responsibilities

• Execute process improvement initiatives related to Spray Drying and its related processes.
• Focus on product quality, formulation management, yield improvement, and reduction of losses.
• Build collaborative relationships with research and development (R&D) scientists and the Technical Services team.
• Understand production processes and flag any potential problems to R&D scientists at early development stages.
• Scale-up line extension products, including process modifications and alternate packaging.
• Scale-up production runs of new products and new processes as handed off by R&D.
• Develop written instructions for scale-up trials to be handed off to operations teams.
• Finalize product documentation including specifications.
• Assist in asset evaluation and mass balance verification related to strategic projects.
• Validate new equipment/process during new equipment installation/commissioning.
• Maintain products and processes including secondary ingredient supplier validation.
• Identify rework opportunities and acceptable usage levels.
• Identify and validate alternate ingredients.
• Identify and implement cost savings related to process, materials, and packaging.
• Identify and implement yield improvements and alternate asset utilization.
• Utilize analytical skills to collect and analyze data from multiple sources.
• Exhibit flexibility and adaptability with scheduling and travel when working on multiple projects.
• Provide routine verbal and written updates on the status of projects and initiatives.
• Actively promote safe work behaviors and hold oneself accountable for following safety rules and regulations.

Requirements

• B.S. / B.A. in Food Science or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 3+ years of dairy products manufacturing experience, with emphasis on Spray Drying, HTST systems, and Fermentations preferred.
• Training or experience with continuous improvement fundamentals.
• In-depth understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and dairy processing.
• In-depth understanding of plant operations and manufacturing processes, including Spray Drying, Fermentation, and Dry Blending systems.
• Ability to utilize Data Capture Programs to improve various manufacturing processes.
• Ability to utilize Data Based systems to drive Continuous Improvement through various Manufacturing Systems.
• Knowledge of laboratory methods and understanding of process and formulation on food safety.
• Ability to effectively use laboratory and pilot plant scale equipment.
• Ability to effectively solve problems and make decisions.
• Ability to work in a team environment but also independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication and influencing skills.
• Desire to continually learn and improve skills and knowledge level.
• Knowledge of project management tools and techniques.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and plan work.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI, and SharePoint.
• Flexibility to travel up to 50% of the time (25-30% normal).
• Knowledge of SAP and OpenText preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with laboratory and pilot plant scale equipment.
• Knowledge of project management tools and techniques.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $85,000-$90,000/year.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Flexible work schedule with travel opportunities.