Pilot Plant Technician

Research & Innovation Pilot Plant Technician United States Louisville On-site Permanent Full-Time Posted:

23 Apr 2026 About the job This position is responsible for assisting with, organizing and performing pilot plant trials and associated support work under general supervision. Specifically, individual will work as part of a team developing, planning and executing day to day pilot operations. The mission of this role is to support the ongoing development and improvement of products, packaging and processes for Danone by applying technical knowledge and logic running small scale experimentation in the pilot plant setting. This role will work closely with R&I scientists and technicians to ensure the accuracy of all trial products. Key Responsibilities As a key member of our team, you will play an important role in driving our mission forward. The following responsibilities outline the core expectations and contributions for this position: Responsible for knowing how to operate and maintain all equipment in the pilot plant Maintains a safe and clean working environment for all employees and visitors Ensures all safety rules, pilot plant rules, GMP's and code of ethics are followed at all times Prioritizes and balances a dynamic production schedule Learns and demonstrates proficiencies on all pilot plant equipment and processes thereby demonstrating technical knowledge and aptitudes across the range of existing and future product types Creates, communicates and regularly updates standard operating procedures for machine operation and maintenance, safety practices and food handling practices Learns and demonstrates proficiencies on all analytical equipment and tests thereby demonstrating technical knowledge and aptitudes for essential laboratory skills Assist R&I developers in the preparation, execution and review of experiments Keep clear and concise records of plant operations as outlined by FSMA regulations Prepare summaries of trial results with recommendations for product/process improvements Troubleshoots and optimizes current products and manufacturing processes for commercialization and to eliminate quality and production errors in the pilot plant Aptitude for troubleshooting minor mechanical and equipment issues when they arise Following equipment and maintenance operations as established by SOP's Safe usage of chemicals All other duties as assigned

Physical Demands & Work Environment Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop, kneel or crouch; talk and hear. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The employee is also required to be able to taste and smell various food products and detect various attributes including taste, odor, and/or texture.

Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to a lab and pilot plant environment where the noise level is usually moderate, but can be high. The salary range for this position is $42,500-60,000USD. The exact salary offered will depend on several factors, including the candidate's relevant experience, geographic location, internal equity, and market conditions. Danone North America additionally offers a performance-based bonus and has a strong benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, 401k Plan, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Time Off, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave, among other benefit plan options. To give our employees flexibility, Danone is a hybrid work environment.