Supervisor, R&D Technical Operations

Role overview

Key responsibilities

• Lead laboratory, pilot, and plant trials and operate pilot equipment for R&D projects.
• Plan trial execution, equipment and ingredient handling, and sample logistics; support plant trials and scale-up.
• Maintain, calibrate, commission, and decommission equipment and improve workflows.
• Train technicians, manage schedules, and oversee research assistants.
• Develop and improve equipment SOPs with research scientists.
• Order laboratory supplies, raw ingredients, and equipment; support R&D project management.
• Hire research assistants and food technicians with the Sr. Manager.
• Implement GMP procedures and coordinate preventive and ongoing equipment and building maintenance.
• Oversee sensory and shelf-life analysis, equipment CIP, sample preparation, and testing documentation.
• Maintain ingredient inventory, storage, and timely cleaning based on shelf life.
• Travel up to 20% to various sites.

Qualifications

• Minimum college diploma in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Analytical Chemistry, Food Microbiology, Food/Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least five years of food-technician experience in a dairy or food research facility.
• Experience managing, training, and mentoring technicians and co-op students and supervising GMPs.
• Knowledge of dairy ingredients and manufacturing processes and food regulations and standards.
• Valid G2 or G driver’s licence and daily access to a car.
• Ability to lift up to 20 kg and work flexible hours based on business needs.

Skills and experience

• Hands-on equipment operation, troubleshooting, and problem-solving experience.
• Ability to use technology and data to improve R&D operations.
• Cross-functional collaboration, decision-making, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Compensation

• Pay range is $75,300 to $125,300 plus bonus.

Benefits

• Benefits include comprehensive coverage, a retirement savings plan, paid vacation, and other perks.

About Gay Lea Foods