Job Description:

Pilot Plant Technician

Thompson Station, TN

Are you passionate about hands-on innovation and eager to make a tangible impact on the future of food and petcare? Join our dynamic team at the Mars Global Innovation Center as a key driver of pilot plant experimentation! The Pilot Plant Technician plays a key role in a collaborative team, supporting preparation, operation, and sanitation of pilot plant equipment, data collection, and continuous improvement activities while ensuring clear communication with stakeholders to support site business objectives. In this critical role, you’ll be at the forefront of bringing new ideas to life—operating state-of-the-art equipment, analyzing test matrixes, verifying ingredients, and supporting essential quality and safety testing. Your meticulous documentation even helps shape the next steps in our technical journey, ensuring every experiment advances our innovation agenda.

As a vital member of our team, you’ll play an integral part in supporting both site-wide and global operations, all while upholding Mars’ renowned standards for Quality (QMP) and Safety. If you thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and are ready to help shape the future of Mars, we want to hear from you!

What are we looking for?

Minimum:

• BS degree OR
• HS/Vocational School degree with 1+ year experience working within manufacturing environment
• Ability to stand for 8+ hours during a 10 hour shift
• Ability to lift 50 lbs
• Ability to operate forklift
• Familiarity with computers and ipad/tablet, as well an ability to navigate general software programs like email, online time keeping and electronic calendars.

Preferred:

• Familiar with food processing GMP standards
• Able to participate in HSE/QA annual auditing

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Set up pilot plant equipment and prepare resources based on test design and parameters
• Operation of a wide range of equipment such as x-rays and metal detectors for repacks/pack outs
• Conduct, record, and distribute ingredient inbound verification of incoming raw materials
• Document and catalogue required control documents as well as pilot plant trials and update Inventory systems as needed
• Provide accurate and timely summaries of experiments performed including data compilation, machine settings, process parameters, recipe contents, etc.
• Provides Quality control for finished product produced in the Pilot Plant and ensures all products leaving the site are safe.
• Cleans and sanitizes equipment/machinery and plant facility according to good manufacturing and sanitation practices.
• Responsible for always maintaining associate safety and food safety in the Pilot Plant
• Flexible to ever-evolving pilot plant demands
• Performs other tasks as assigned

What can you expect from Mars?

• Essence of Mars (EoM): Our culture is grounded in the Essence of Mars, guiding our decisions and inspiring us to deliver exceptional results.
• Global Impact: Work on projects that touch millions of consumers and pets worldwide, contributing to Mars Share of Prosperity (MSOP).
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools, including secure GenAI platforms like MAX, to enhance productivity and creativity.
• Sustainability Commitment: Be part of a company that leads with purpose, investing in sustainable practices and responsible innovation.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for personal and professional development, including Mars Performance Incentive (MPI) programs and learning resources.
• Inclusive Environment: Join a diverse, collaborative community where your ideas are valued and your contributions make a real impact.

Mars does not sponsor visas for this role.

This position is not eligible for relocation benefits.