Pilot Plant & Laboratory Manager

Partner closely with R&D leadership to oversee daily facility needs and assist with planned activities. Serve as the primary on-site liaison for contractors, vendors, and internal technical teams for infrastructure related projects. Coordinate locally with impacted teams during facility upgrade/maintenance activities, and planned maintenance of pilot/lab equipment. Oversee on site installation and calibration of laboratory instruments and equipment; compile or generate operating documentation and SOP's Maintain and oversee pilot plant operation schedules, raw material inventory management, and primary packaging inventory. Create, implement & maintain kanban pilot plant and laboratory supply systems. Support equipment and infrastructure issue identification and resolution, escalating risks as needed to avoid project delays or cost impacts. Prepare and deliver routine status reports and technical updates R&D leadership and cross-functional stakeholders. Partner with lab teams to establish recurring lab clean-up, organization, and other related activities. Partner with R&D teams to identify, prioritize, and scope future capital needs Establish training program for R&D staff on lab/pilot equipment; organize training as needed and maintain R&D training records Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Project Management, or related field (or equivalent experience). 1-3 years of experience in engineering, pilot plant management, lab/plant operations, or technical project coordination. Experienced in food manufacturing, food safety, with GMP and HACCP training. Demonstrated coordination of contractors, vendors, or maintenance technicians for infrastructure upgrades/repairs, and/or pilot & lab equipment maintenance. Ability to operate, maintain, disassemble, and clean food processing pilot equipment. Proven ability to troubleshoot lab equipment issues. Strong communication, organization, and stakeholder‑management skills. Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet) and Microsoft Office Suite. Able to work independently on-site and make informed decisions with minimal supervision. Knowledge of laboratory infrastructure (e.g., HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, cleanroom or research spaces). Familiarity with 5S principles and implementation.