JOB SUMMARY:
Support the Kroger Our Brands and Corporate Food Technology teams through various laboratory-related functions based on the changing needs of manufactured and procured Our Brands products under the direction of Technologists. Assist other lab technicians as needed. Perform all jobs safely, efficiently, and accurately to maintain and improve the performance in the areas of Safety, Quality, Reliability (SQR) and Customer 1st strategy.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
This hybrid position will be required to work in the Kroger Office at least two days per week based on your team’s schedule
Assume a leading role in managing the process for new product development of KLP and KMP items
Initiate and maintain contact with suppliers to communicate needs
Track and report the status of projects to CFT Technologist and other business units
Independently coordinate, set up, and assist in conducting product sensory evaluations, cuttings, audits, and communicate results
Monitor and manage production samples and mail on a daily basis for quality and distribution; manage sample retention
Verify retail package nutrition labeling for accuracy
Prepare recipes and verify retail package preparation/cooking directions for accuracy
Utilize appropriate databases as required to meet business needs
Assemble and prepare formulations, along with performing clean-up of equipment and utensils as directed by technologist
Participate in a wide variety of food product evaluations
Independently perform general duties as required to assure a smooth workflow in the laboratory as directed by technologist
Efficiently coordinate work demands of at least 3 technologists in a timely manner
Coordinate and collaborate with the CFT Sensory Manager to assist with product sensory evaluations
Report quality issues to technologist
Follow established programs, policies, and practices to produce safe, quality foods that meet regulatory and company requirements
Issue cutting and audit reports and paperwork as directed by technologist
Manage daily and ongoing cleaning of lab equipment, dishes, utensils, and stocking of lab supplies
Independently calibrate and run various pieces of lab equipment after being trained
Support the development, implementation, maintenance, and ongoing improvement of the SQF Systems
Ability to multi-task and be flexible in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
Accountable to the Kroger Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles
Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation
MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:
High School Diploma or equivalent, preferably a 2-year culinary or technical degree
Ability to analyze information, form a conclusion, and communicate the results
Ability to follow detailed instructions and learn new and different aspects of the job quickly
Be a self-starter with the ability to work independently and complete concurrent multiple assignments
Proficient in: Microsoft Office, Calendar Booking, and other database systems
Ability to prioritize and organize responsibilities based on changing and challenging deadlines
Ability to cook and coordinate multiple cooking activities
Excellent attention to detail with high degree of accuracy and precision
Adaptable to last-minute changes and shifting priorities
Strong oral and written communication skills
MINIMUM PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Must be able to: Most weeks require standing up to 7.5 hours per day, multiple times a week
Lift up to 50 pounds
Tolerate temperature fluctuations and working in cold areas such as freezers
PREFFERED EXPERIENCE:
Laboratory or food-related experience, especially science-related experience or kitchen/restaurant experience
Science, chemistry, biology, math, and/or statistics classes
Previous support person for multiple people
COMPETENCIES/SKILLS:
Some of the Competencies/Skills required to successfully perform this position are:
Adaptability – maintaining effectiveness when experiencing major changes…