Position : Packaging Development R&D Lab Technician
Location : East Hanover, NJ (Includes management of the East Hanover Lab and Whippany Pilot Plant)
Core Responsibilities :
Overview : This role involves managing the East Hanover Lab and Whippany Pilot Plant. The ideal candidate will have experience managing a Packaging Lab, strong technical skills, and the ability to learn quickly and execute independently. A minimum of 3-5 years of experience is required, preferably in the food industry. The candidate should be a strong team player, provide guidance to Junior Engineers, and be an effective communicator within the Packaging Development Team.
Key Responsibilities :
Serve as the Packaging Safety Steward for the East Hanover Lab and Whippany Pilot Plant.
Coordinate periodic site safety inspections.Facilitate and update Risk Assessments with HSE & other experts.Conduct Safety Training for new employees and as needed.Manage the Packaging Developers' storage locations in the lab.Budget Planning & Tracking :Plan and submit proposals for the annual budget, including capital expenditures, during the June / July timeframe.
Track expenses on blanket POs and ensure accurate phasing / forecasting.Maintenance, Calibration & Training :Maintain equipment schedules and coordinate repairs as needed.
Schedule training for new installations; manage Super Users for WPP equipment to support trials.Coordinate with vendors to complete yearly calibration tests in the East Hanover lab.New Equipment Purchase & Installation :Identify new testing and equipment needs based on developer feedback and strategic needs.
Draft and submit ARs for approval, and complete GR.Lead all pre- and post-installation activities in partnership with Facilities.Request and maintain asset tags for proper depreciation reporting.Whippany Pilot Plant Responsibilities :Act as the liaison between Packaging Developers and Pilot Plant staff to plan trials, coordinate activities, and manage material arrivals.
Secure necessary support from Super Users and / or WPP staff to run equipment during trials.Work with WPP to create proper forms and documentation to comply with HSE & Food Safety standards, SOPs, risk assessments, and create PM plans.Typical Day-to-Day Activities :
Perform requested packaging testing, share data with the requestor, and maintain records in GLIMS.Support or execute trials at the Whippany Pilot Plant; act as the Single Point of Contact for WPP staff.Create and maintain internal test methods & SOPs for each instrument and equipment type.Purchase supplies & consumables as needed, following MDLZ procedures.Maintain a safe, organized, and tidy lab and pilot plant environment.Ensure data repositories (Eureka, Teams, or others) are used for all tests.Conduct lab tours for Senior Leadership.Qualifications : Must-Haves :
Experience in writing reports and conveying data. Engineers will interpret the results and conduct statistical analysis.Consistent maintenance of a safe and organized environment.Strong leadership qualities and assertiveness.Nice-to-Haves :
Ability to conduct tours through the lab and pilot plant for the leadership team.Managerial experience.Experience maintaining a budget.
