Packaging Development R&D Lab Technician - PackStaff : Job Details

Position: Packaging Development R&D Lab TechnicianLocation: 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:

• Safety:
  • 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.