About the role
We are looking for an experienced andproactive Pilot Plant Technologist to take full operational ownership of our pilot plant within the Applied Innovation team. In this pivotal role, you will lead the safe, hygienic, and efficient day-to-day operation of the pilot plant, supporting the development of innovative dairy and plant-based dairy applications and products. You will independently manage and execute trials, oversee plant resources and maintenance, and ensure the pilot plant environment operates to the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance. Working closely with Application Managers, CI Managers, and Research Scientists, you will play a central role in delivering high-quality experimental and development activities while also providing leadership and guidance to the Pilot Plant Assistant. If you thrive in a hands-on innovation environment and enjoy combining technical expertise with operational leadership, we would love to hear from you.

Responsibilities
- Manage the day-to-day operation of the pilot plant, including trial scheduling, resource planning, and prioritization to ensure efficient operations.
- Independently lead end-to-end trial execution in line with trial plans and SOPs, covering material availability, equipment setup and operation, analysis, cleaning, and result reporting in relevant systems.
- Support Application Managers, CI Managers, and Research Scientists with specialized trials and the procurement and management of raw materials, packaging, and consumables.
- Oversee stock management of regular materials and consumables, including ordering, shelf-life monitoring, specification management, and cost control.
- Take ownership of preventive and corrective equipment maintenance, coordinating with the Office Manager on contracts and procurement.
- Ensure safe and hygienic pilot plant operations through compliance with safety measures, PRP programs, and HACCP standards, supported by pilot plant safety assessments and the Pilot Plant Assistant.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S and operational excellence programs, while leading, onboarding, and guiding the Pilot Plant Assistant.

About you
- Bachelor of Applied Sciences (HBO) in Food Technology, Process Technology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; or MBO level 4 in a relevant technical or laboratory field with proven hands-on experience in a pilot plant or production environment.
- Proven experience in pilot plant, food production, or process development environments.
- Good understanding of food safety and hygiene standards, including HACCP and PRP programs, and safe working practices.
- Experience with equipment operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple trials and resources simultaneously.
- Experience with stock management, cost monitoring, and procurement processes.
- Practical and hands-on mindset with a proactive approach to continuous improvement ( 5S, lean practices).
- Good communication skills and ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Experience leading or supervising a team member is an advantage.
- Fluent in English and/or Dutch; additional languages are a plus.

Contact and information
Please apply through our career portal.