Scientist-Coffee Research & Development Team (Process Development Engineer)

The Folger Coffee Company - Orrville, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Orrville, OH

Food Manufacturing

About the position

In this role as a Scientist within the Coffee Research & Development Team, specifically as a Process Development Engineer, you will be at the forefront of new coffee process technology development and scale-up. Your responsibilities will encompass Technical Readiness (TR) and leading technical teams to ensure successful project execution. You will develop a deep expertise in various manufacturing processes, including roasting and coffee extraction, while also exploring unique processes at contract manufacturers. A significant aspect of your role will involve bringing new process technology capabilities into the pilot plant (PRL), which will require a strong focus on quality and safety, as you will have ownership of key elements related to these areas. To excel in this position, you will need to apply the scientific method effectively to design, execute, analyze, and summarize research findings. Your engineering background will be crucial in solving complex technical problems that arise in manufacturing processes and process development. The position is based in Orrville, OH, and requires a minimum of 50% in-person presence to support the Presence with Purpose Model, which may increase based on business needs. Your day-to-day activities will include developing expertise in coffee manufacturing processes, installing and commissioning new process technologies in the pilot plant, and creating Transformation Flow Sheets for new and modified manufacturing processes. You will also be responsible for leading process development for new products, which includes designing pilot plant experiments, creating test plans for plant trials, and managing plant trials whether on-site or remotely. Additionally, you will develop proficiency in Tech Readiness, leading projects that involve innovation, renovation, and optimization. Collaboration with contract manufacturers will be essential as you liaise for product and process development, ensuring compliance with HS&E, GMP, and Food Safety/QA requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop expertise in coffee manufacturing processes.
• Install and commission new process technologies in the pilot plant (PRL).
• Create Transformation Flow Sheets for new and modified manufacturing processes.
• Create basis for scale-up reports.
• Lead process development for new products, including design of pilot plant (PRL) experiments, creation of test plans for plant trials, Sales Samples, and SOP.
• Responsible for plant trials whether on-site or remote.
• Develop proficiency in Tech Readiness; lead Tech Readiness for new process and product development projects (innovation, renovation, optimization).
• Lead technical teams to meet project deliverables and timing.
• Understand general capabilities and processes at Smucker manufacturing facilities and Contract Manufacturers; liaise with CMs for product and process development, including plant trials, CQV, Sales Samples, and SOP.
• Support the department through leadership of QA and/or HS&E Key Elements.
• Comply with HS&E, GMP, and Food Safety/QA requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering (Chemical preferred).
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in Engineering, Manufacturing, and/or Research & Development.
• Strong critical thinking, applying engineering principles, and complex problem solving.
• Ability to apply statistical thinking and decision making.
• Ability to work independently, with guidance in only complex situations.
• Collaboration to create and maintain productive relationships.
• Effective presentation, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Up to 30% travel required ongoing, including international.
• Must be willing/able to drive a company or rental vehicle as needed.

Nice-to-haves

• Engineering experience with application to new product development in a beverage or food related field (including contract manufacturing experience).
• Experience with bulk powder handling can be beneficial.
• Demonstrated project management skills through process/equipment qualification and/or Tech Readiness.
• Strong background in demonstrating mechanical aptitude.

Benefits

• Total Rewards benefits program.
• Continuous opportunities to learn, grow and develop.
• Support for physical, emotional, and financial needs.
• Commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity.