R&D Technician

Join Smithfield

When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special – a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our core four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact.

The R&D Technician supports product development and innovation through hands-on execution in the Smithfield Virginia Innovation Center – Pilot Plant. Working under direction and in close collaboration with the Prototyping and the R&D team, this role is responsible for producing products, supporting trials, preparing customer samples, and maintaining accurate documentation. This position requires a strong focus on safety, quality, and execution, with daily involvement in production activities.

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

• Product Development & Testing

  • Execute pilot plant trials, produce prototype products, and collect data under direction

  • Support product evaluations and communicate basic results to the team

• Customer Sample Preparation

  • Prepare, package, and ship customer samples to meet quality and presentation standards

• Documentation & Data Management

  • Accurately record formulas, processes, and results using systems such as SAP, PMDM, or similar tools

  • Maintain clear and legible documentation

• Pilot Plant Operations

  • Support ingredient handling, staging, and blending processes

  • Operate equipment safely following established procedures

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment

• Facility & Team Support

  • Prepare pilot plant and workspace for customer and corporate visits

  • Assist with basic analytical testing and daily operational needs

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

• Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

• 2+ years relevant food manufacturing experience, preferred.

• Ability to follow directions and execute tasks consistently

• Basic Microsoft Office skills (Outlook, Word, Excel)

• Ability to accurately document data

• Ability to stand and work in a production environment (cold and hot) all day

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to plan, organize, prioritize and achieve effective time management

• Ability to work under pressure and meet established goals and objectives

• Ability to travel occasionally, possibly overnight. 10% travel possible

• Acts with a sense of urgency & ability to meet deadlines; self-directed

• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment

• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

• Strong commitment to safety and quality.

• Technical certification in a related field.

• Experience working with pilot plant or manufacturing equipment.

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

• Specific…