Senior Technologist (Process Engineer) - Research and Development, Pet SBA

J.M. Smucker - Orrville, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Orrville, OH

Food Manufacturing

About the position

The Senior Technologist (Process Engineer) in Research and Development at J. M. Smucker Company is responsible for developing, optimizing, and implementing proprietary process technologies and equipment to support the innovation roadmap for pet snack and food products. This role involves leading process development from concept through commercialization, improving existing processes, and enabling new product development or cost improvements. The position requires collaboration with various teams and stakeholders to ensure successful project execution and risk mitigation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, scale-up, and commercialization of Innovation, Renovation, Value Engineering & Transformation initiatives.
• Lead commissioning and support Operations with qualification of new product & process technologies, as well as improving existing process technologies.
• Independently develop standard operating procedures, manufacturing specifications, and influence project direction with key stakeholders within and outside of R&D.
• Apply fundamental engineering principles for appropriate decision making and documentation for knowledge capture.
• Anticipate, plan for and mitigate process/engineering/scale-up risks by interfacing with equipment suppliers, manufacturing facilities and relevant business functions.
• Assess legal and environmental aspects, and patent opportunities for new technologies/processes.
• Collect and analyze data from suppliers, plant operations, customers, and consumers & communicate actionable insights to deliver desired results.

Requirements

• B.S. Degree (or higher) in Engineering
• 2+ years' experience of relevant experience in Engineering and/or Research & Development (including Internships/Co Op experiences)
• Engineering experience with application to new product development in a beverage or food related field is highly desired.
• Demonstrated project management skills through process/equipment qualification and/or Tech Readiness.
• Strong background in applying engineering principles & critical thinking to solve complex technical problems.
• Ability to apply statistical thinking and decision making.
• Must be willing/able to drive a company or rental vehicle as needed.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong critical thinking and complex problem solving.
• Ability to work independently, with guidance in only complex situations.
• Collaboration to create and maintain productive relationships.
• Effective presentation, verbal, and written communication skills.

Benefits

• Total Rewards Benefits Program
• Support for physical, emotional, and financial needs
• Inclusion, Diversity and Equity initiatives