Senior R&D Pilot Lab Technician

Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $4 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

 

Purpose Statement

As a Senior RIC Facility Technician, you will play a pivotal role in the operations of our R&D Pilot Plant and Facility. Your expertise will not only support the execution of research and development projects but also drive the enhancement of our processes and systems. This senior role demands a proactive approach to facility maintenance, equipment operation, safety compliance, and team leadership.

This role is based at our WHQ in Buffalo, NY, with limited travel expected.

Key Accountabilities and Outcomes

• Safety Leadership: Champion safety protocols and mentor associates to uphold a safe working environment, exceeding company policies and regulatory standards.

 

• Advanced Trial Support: Lead the setup and execution of complex R&D pilot lab trials, ensuring seamless preparation and availability of sophisticated equipment and materials.

 

• Equipment Mastery:

• Oversee the operation and maintenance of pilot plant equipment, ensuring peak functionality, cleanliness, and troubleshooting advanced issues.

• Uses assembly drawings, P&ID’s and manuals to tune equipment for operation, uses electrical and logic principles to solve equipment problems.

• Works with operating devices such as gages, RTD’s, pressure transmitters, and flow meters.

 

• Proactive Facility Oversight: Conduct advanced routine maintenance tasks, including preventative maintenance, spare part inventory control, complex repairs, and system upgrades, coordinating with the R&D Pilot Plant/Facility Manager and external contractors.

 

• Leadership & Training:

• Will be required to work with and train associates on basic equipment troubleshooting and assist with equipment operation as needed with lab trials.

• Performs any other related miscellaneous duties assigned by Facilities Manager.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• Associate’s degree in a technical field related to the food and beverage industry; (additional certifications are a plus) and a minimum of 3 years’ experience in facility maintenance or process engineering, with a focus on R&D environments.

• In-depth knowledge of pilot plant operations, equipment, and maintenance protocols.

• Strong understanding of food safety, quality regulations, and compliance standards.

• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills; clearly conveys complex and technical issues to a diverse audience.

• Detail-oriented with a focus on safety and quality.

• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.

• Must have the desire and ability to operate as a member of a Self-Directed work team

• Must have general mechanical knowledge and electrical and logic principle knowledge

• Has basic plumbing and general facilities/building maintenance knowledge

• Has an awareness of and the ability to follow and promote Associate Safety guidelines

 

Physical Requirements:

Lifting and Carrying:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently.

• Occasional lifting of items weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Transporting materials and equipment within the pilot plant.

 

Standing and Walking:

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the day.

• Frequent movement between different workstations and equipment.

 

Bending, Stooping, and Reaching:

• Regular bending, stooping, and reaching to access equipment and materials.

• Ability to work in confined spaces and at various heights.

 

Manual Dexterity:

• Fine motor skills for handling small components and operating precision instruments.

• Ability to use hand tools and equipment safely and effectively.

 

Pushing and Pulling:

• Pushing and pulling carts, bins, and equipment as needed.

• Maneuvering heavy items with the assistance of mechanical aids when necessary.

 

Climbing:

• Occ