Pilot Plant Operations Lead; R&D

Job Description

Working as part of a cross‑functional team, you are an internally recognized expert in a critical technical area for the R&D process development function. You identify, define and solve complex technical and business problems by applying broad technical and in‑depth knowledge. You oversee the delivery of assigned programs, support new programs/platforms linked to business objectives and use your expertise in your technical area when interacting with senior management and global cross‑functional teams to help deliver on current and future demands of the business.

You will support technically focused projects and use your technical expertise to guide, direct and influence activities. You will ensure that the right solutions are developed, future breakthrough opportunities are identified and executable programs are implemented with technical rigor. As a leader in your technical field, you will develop and leverage connections internally and with external technical partners. As a leader of people, you will create a culture that fosters intellectual properties to drive competitive advantage;

manage an internal team of process developers and work with cross‑functional partners to establish resource and budget needs to deliver the requirements in your business area of responsibility; provide strategic leadership in your process technology area and/or process development program; and mentor and coach others to grow technical talent.

• Technical leadership in process development, including leading a process development team, ideally within a fast‑moving consumer goods environment
• Applying strong technical leadership and expertise to set and deliver the business and functional agenda
• Using critical thinking and thought leadership proactively to ensure solutions to complex issues are delivered
• Working collaboratively in a fast‑paced global commercial and technical environment
• Coaching and mentoring others
• Ensuring foundational skills and capabilities keep pace with technology advancements
• Creating a culture of technical curiosity, learning and collaboration

• Lead, coach, and manage a team of up to 14 technicians and contractors who support Biscuit and Confectionery pilot plant scale‑up trials.
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and identify professional development opportunities for team members.
• Supervise the execution of pilot plant trials, ensuring strict adherence to safety, quality, and CGMP standards.
• Oversee daily operational schedules, ensure adequate staffing, strict adherence to SOPs, and efficient workflow.
• Coordinate and lead comprehensive pre‑trial meetings with process and product developers to define the trial objectives, pre‑work requirements, analytical methodologies for non‑standard formulations, and CTQ specifications for control and test products.
• Conduct post‑trial reviews to assess trial outcomes against objectives, analyze data, and identify areas for process and operational improvement.
• Achieve and maintain high equipment readiness for trials, with an initial goal of 80% and a target of 95% within 12 months, to minimize cancellations due to unplanned equipment breakdowns.
• Track, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for pilot plant operations, including trial readiness, trial success rates, and cancellations. Update the KPI dashboard quarterly and provide monthly readiness reports to the Site Lead.

BS in Chemical/Mechanical/Food Engineering

• 8-10 years of experience.
• Strong technical foundation and high level of technical curiosity.

5% travel

Onsite role based in Whippany, NJ.

The base salary range for this position is $109,000 to $149,875; the exact salary depends on several factors such as experience, skills, education and location. In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for participation in a highly competitive bonus program with possibility for over achievement based on performance and company results. In addition, Mondelez International offers health…