Thermal Processing Specialist

A Thermal Processing Specialist is an individual who conducts heat penetration testing and temperature distribution testing at the direction and under the supervision of the Process Authority in addition to conducting routine reviews of thermal processing records and processing deviations and related tasks.

• Conduct Temperature Distribution testing on all retorts and other thermal processing systems in operation at company processing facilities
• Conduct Heat Penetration testing on all company products
• Work with the Process Authority to determine Critical Factors such as time, temperature and pH as well as participate in evaluations of company product formulations, processing methods and packaging to determine the necessary processing conditions to ensure food safety
• Help maintain the Thermal Processing Schedule for all company products
• Conduct routine reviews of Processing Data and assist in handling and disposition of processing deviations
• Work on a cross-functional team to establish and implement a customized formal training program for retort operators and other company employees regarding heat penetration concepts and proper procedures and SOPs
• Participate in daily review of processing records by others
• Assist in filing scheduled processes with the FDA in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations
• Assist in adherence to Preventative Maintenance Program related to Retorts and Retort systems installed at company facilities
• Communicate with customers regarding process safety and provide data as necessary.
• Assist Process Authority with special projects as necessary

• BS in a Science-based curriculum is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a food processing environment. Prior experience with Thermal Processing preferred
• Experience using CALSoft software or equivalent software for heat penetration analysis
• Knowledge of microbiology and current issues of food safety and quality assurance relating to canning, dry blending, soup base or bottled sauce manufacturing
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex concepts verbally and in writing
• Ability to multitask and handle multiple projects at once