Farmer's Fridge is hiring: Production Development Technician in Chicago

Production Development Technician

Hourly Rate: $19.50 per hour / $250 Sign-on BONUS!

Eligibility for a $250 reward on a quarterly basis

Schedule: Sunday - Thursday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Location: 5370 S. Cicero Ave., Chicago, IL

We have a hunch—let’s call it a gut feeling—that happiness starts in your stomach. That’s why Farmer's Fridge has set out to remove the roadblocks to eating wholesome, delicious food. Our mission is to play a part in changing our food system for the better. Jar by jar, conversation by conversation, our company and every one of you is helping to change the way we eat. We are a team that cares -– about the business, the impact our product makes, and each other. We are data-driven, innovative, and quick to move on a good idea. We are looking for people who want to collaborate in an entrepreneurial, inclusive culture and have a passion for success.

In the Production Development Technician role, you will:

• Produce small-scale production runs of menu items for in-market testing including the processing, mixing and assembly of recipes.
• Support in execution of all production trials by coordinating inventory needs, checking raw materials quality, auditing ingredient and finished product weights, recording trial results, and compiling trial summary to share out to wider team.
• Support new product launches by assisting with recipe training, assisting with new item shelf life testing, and auditing for the first month of production. This includes auditing weights of ingredients and finished products, analyzing throughput and optimizing the production line to alleviate bottlenecks.
• Support day-to-day problem solving as they arise related to ingredient and finished product quality concerns. Working with the Commercialization Team and R&D Chef to define what is within spec and what is acceptable to use.

Necessary knowledge, skills, and experience:

• 1-2 years of experience in manufacturing, food manufacturing is preferred.
• Culinary knowledge. Training will be provided on making recipes but common knowledge on ingredients and cooking techniques is desired.
• Experience with Good Manufacturing Practices, Allergen controls, and HACCP.
• Able to stand and work for long periods of time (8+ hour shifts) in a cold environment (around 40 degrees) and lift at least 40 lbs.
• Knowledge and ability to use computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Suite.
• Possess strong communication skills.
• Able to stay organized and flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of basic food manufacturing etiquette (handwashing techniques, food safety) is a plus!

Personal characteristics:

• Improvement Oriented. You know your team is doing a good job; however, you keep track of data so that others can understand their performance too. You use this data as an insight into potential improvement.
• Confidence. You know your job and your demeanor inspires your teams to trust you.
• Humility. You appreciate everyone and the contributions that they make. The work of others is just as valuable as your own.
• Flexibility. You can pivot quickly as needed and it doesn’t bother you. In fact, you see these changes as fun challenges to conquer.
• Positive. You’re the sort of person who is a joy to be around. You smile and lift people up when they’re feeling down.

You’ll get…

• Enjoy free Lunch every day! An annual value of $4,000!
• Competitive Salary & 401K company match that vests immediately upon participation.
• Traditional benefits for full-time hourly – Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short Term, and Long Term Disability.
• Generous sick leave & PTO policy.
• Paid holidays.

During your break - Never run on empty by enjoying daily Farmer’s Fridge meals, challenge a coworker to a game of ping pong, de-stress by taking a spin on our Nascar arcade game, or spend your break on one of our comfy couches.

Happier Workdays - Walking into the facility should fill you with joy, not dread. We're a fun and passionate group, and we don't take ourselves too seriously. Bring your unique self to work, dress comfortably, and always feel free to share your thoughts and opinions. We encourage curiosity and inquiry; there's no hierarchy here when we're all swapping ideas.

Innovate & Elevate - We are all teachers and learners. You'll grow, and help grow the company through cross-functional collaboration, open access to leadership, and regular business updates. You have a direct impact on the company’s bottom line. You can also impact your bottom line by participating in our 401(k) plan that includes a company match with immediate vesting.

Farmer’s Fridge is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

View our disclosures related to External Agencies and Applicants below: https://www.farmersfridge.com/careerdisclosures

#J-18808-Ljbffr