Research and Development Technician

Job description

The ASR Group® family of companies make up the world’s largest refiner and marketer of cane sugar. The companies produce a full line of grocery, industrial, foodservice and specialty sweetener products. Across North America, ASR Group® companies operate five sugar refineries, located in California, Maryland, Louisiana, Canada and Mexico. In Europe, ASR Group® companies operate sugar refineries in the United Kingdom, Portugal, and, with a joint venture partner, Italy. The companies also farm sugarcane and own sugar mills in Mexico and Belize. The ASR Group® portfolio includes the leading brands Domino®, C&H®, Florida Crystals®, Redpath®, Tate & Lyle®, Lyle's®, Sidul® and Whitworths®. ASR Group® companies also produce and market Tellus®, a single-use, compostable tableware and foodservice product made from plant fibers, including sugarcane. OVERVIEW The Research and Development Technician works within the New Product Development Team and supports new and existing product development projects. Responsible for conducting research, trials, and experiments in the lab and pilot plant. They will perform standard testing and process procedures in the development of new processes and products. Their duties include setting up and breaking down pilot equipment, conducting experimentation of different materials, chemicals and physical makeup effects, performing quality control tests on current experiments, and creating technical reports on the outcomes of tests, products, and processes. DETAILED ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Procures materials, collects samples and prepares products for testing and trial runs, with setup, running, and breakdown of pilot scale equipment and supports scale-up of pilot trials at local sites Executes basic experiments to test a hypothesis, while preserving a safe and accident free laboratory environment Prepares compounds, test solutions and reagents to conduct experiments, then advise and coordinate results on test procedures Develop, improve, and customize equipment, products, formulas, analytical methods and processes Collect and analyze lab and process data to generate reports and document findings in electronic lab notebook and presentations Consult with engineers and scientists on the analysis, interpretation, and development of tests Maintain stocks of critical supplies, chemicals and materials. Create and maintain Lab SOPs for the operation of new or existing processes and/or equipment Clean and maintain pilot plant equipment and laboratory instruments, ensuring all technology is working correctly, within calibration. WORK EXPERIENCES Experience in basic pulp & paper chemistry techniques Experience working in a lab environment or R&D setting, using the following instrumentation is a plus: pH, moisture, color, burst strength, tensile, stiffness, tear and porosity Ability to interpret data, perform analytical calculations and statistical analysis Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams and Outlook; SAP and Minitab experience preferred. Ability to work under supervision as well as independently to meet project objectives and timelines Must be able to work in a cross-functional environment to interact with multiple departments Willing and able to lift 30lbs on occasion Willing and able to work flexible hours, including overtime, as business needs require Possess strong attention to detail, organization and communication skills Comfortable presenting to their NPD colleagues EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS BS in pulp & paper technology preferred, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry or science related field/subject major is required. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY This role has no supervisory responsibility. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS Local travel frequency will be minimal and will be based on business needs. ESSENTIAL CAPABILITIES (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES) Customer Orientation - Keeps internal and/or external customer(s) in mind at all times. Strives to proactively address customer concerns and needs. Effective Communication – Expresses ideas and information in a clear and concise manner by tailoring one's message to fit the interests and needs of the audience. Establishes Trust – Gaining the confidence and faith of others by actions and words that promote being honest, forthcoming, integrious and vulnerable. Results Orientation & Accountability – Takes accountability, identifies, executes and drives actions to consistently achieve desired results. Teamwork & Collaboration – Creates a climate that fosters commitment to a common vision and shared values that promote cooperation and working together through trust and support of others. Adaptability/Flexibility – Maintaining effectiveness in varying environments and with different tasks, responsibilities and people. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other category protected under federal, state, or local law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.