Job Title:  Pilot Plant Technician

No Relocation Assistance Offered
Job Number #166559 - Topeka, Kansas, United States

Who We Are

Colgate-Palmolive Company is a global consumer products company operating in over 200 countries specializing in Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other brand in the world, making us a household name!

Join Colgate-Palmolive, a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for people, their pets, and our planet. Guided by our core values—Caring, Inclusive, and Courageous—we foster a culture that inspires our people to achieve common goals. Together, let's build a brighter, healthier future for all.
 

As an EFL (Pilot Plant) Technician at our Pet Nutrition Center, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Hill’s products and process technologies. You'll transform raw ingredients into cutting-edge pet food products using research and experimental equipment. This dynamic position is based at Hill’s state-of-the-art facility, where you will report directly to the Pilot Plant Manager. If you’re passionate about innovation in pet nutrition and ready to contribute to a dedicated team, this role is for you.

Responsibilities:

• Transform raw ingredients into finished pet food products, ensuring formula specifications are met.
• Conduct sophisticated computer-controlled retort simulations to optimize can sterilization parameters.
• Pioneer new pet food manufacturing processes in producing experimental dry and wet products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align on safety, quality, and productivity objectives.
• Drive a box truck to transport materials between facilities, ensuring compliance with all motor vehicle regulations.
• Innovate and maintain industry-leading standards by working closely with vendors and performing inventory management using SAP.
• Perform quality checks on raw materials and products to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Required Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED.
• At least 1 year of experience in food manufacturing or cGMP/Food Safety.
• Proficiency in the Google Suite and SAP software applications.
• Possession of a Class C or higher license with a clean driving record is mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years experience with pet food processing equipment and familiarity with automation systems like PLCs and VFDs.
• A college degree and possession of a valid forklift certification are advantageous.
• Prior driving experience with a Box Truck or Semi Truck and a CDL is highly preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively with scientists and technicians.
• Enthusiastic about learning new techniques and able to work under varying environmental conditions.
• Experience in process and safety improvement initiatives and a strong understanding of cGMPs and Food Safety protocols.

Join us in revolutionizing pet nutrition by applying your expertise and passion for food manufacturing to this exciting, hands-on role.

Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range $62,000 - $77,500 USD

Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and long-term incentives for Executive-level roles.

Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Achieving our purpose starts with our people — ensuring our workforce represents the people and communities we serve —and creating an environment where our people feel they belong; where we can be our authentic selves, feel treated with respect and have the support of leadership to impact the business in a meaningful way.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities. Please complete this request form should you require accommodation.

For additional Colgate terms and conditions, please click here.

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