One Table, One Team Where every seat matters.

At CJ Schwan’s, we don’t just make food — we help create moments that matter. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life. Our portfolio includes iconic pizzas, global flavors and timeless desserts from brands like Red Baron®, bibigo®, Tony’s®, Big Daddy’s®, Freschetta®, Pagoda®, Edwards® and Mrs. Smith’s®. Enjoyed in homes, schools, restaurants and just about everywhere people shop and eat, our products reflect a commitment to quality, innovation and the power of food to bring people together. 

We are hiring a Sr. Pilot Plant Technician in our Salina, KS, pizza complex. This position is responsible for the support of research and development groups in the areas of new product development, product improvement, cost reduction, product maintenance, lab operations and maintenance, sensory testing, and technical support. This person is also responsible for managing the operations and maintenance of the pilot plant; working with product development staff to coordinate, schedule, set up and assist in testing or production in the pilot plant.

What You Will Do:

• Operate and maintain pilot plant completes required documentation, keeping lab areas and equipment clean and operational, calibrating and maintaining operational status of instruments and coordinates equipment and instrument repairs.
• Maintaining maintenance and sanitation records.
• Scheduling and coordinating lab inspection to maintain required certifications.
• Coordinating with Product Development and Process Engineering in developing and conducting training programs for the new processes due to the introduction of new products, equipment, and product re-staging.
• Developing experimental formulas or processing techniques and specifications with guidance from scientists and specialists’ engineers.
• Evaluating existing formulas and processes, identifying cost savings and product improvement opportunities, and recommending solutions to scientists or management.
• Providing support for commercialization of new products, including installation and the shakedown of new equipment.
• Mentoring and training other technicians in equipment operation and maintenance, as applicable.
• Assisting Product Development team members and Operations in the gathering and dissemination of testing and production data for the pilot plant.
• Being responsible for the operations and maintenance of the pilot plant including equipment and any new equipment that is brought into the pilot plant.
• Placing purchase orders and coordinating delivery and receipt of required ingredients.
• Documenting all work according to established procedures and guidelines. Preparing reports to project teams to ensure complete communication of project status, progress, issues, solutions, timeline and accountability.
• Developing and implementing programs to improve efficiencies, speed and quality of response. Focusing programs to meet department and business unit goals.
• Providing technical support to Product Development groups or Operations as it relates to product testing or production in the pilot plant. Providing feedback or recommendations to solutions as they relate to ongoing projects.

What We Look For:

• Associate degree (AA) from a college or technical school or equivalent work experience.
• 3+ years of related experience.
• Good working knowledge of manufacturing practices.
• Working knowledge of FDA, USDA, and OSHA regulations.
• Working knowledge of safety and testing procedures and a variety of laboratory / pilot plant equipment and apparatuses.
• Basic PC skills including Windows environment: word processing and spreadsheet.
• Ability to operate and calibrate R&D laboratory and pilot lab instruments and equipment.
• Ability to taste and ingest any type of food product currently under development.

What We Offer:

The base salary range for this position is $21.30 - $37.10 per hour. The pay range represents the numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to education, skills, work experience, certifications, geography etc. As such, starting pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.

Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total Rewards package designed to support your overall well-being, including comprehensive health benefits, time off programs, and retirement and financial offerings.

CJ Schwan’s and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, national origin, or any other protected characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs. For accommodation requests or assistance with the application, please email career.search@schwans.com.

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