Research Technician

Department: Food Science
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Temporary full-time from 02/01/2026 to 08/31/2026 

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. 
Career Opportunities (sapsf.com) 

The Guelph Food Innovation Centre (GFIC) is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Pilot Plant Technician to support daily operations, client projects and research trials. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing equipment operation, maintenance, and coordination of activities that support GFIC’s industry, academic, and training initiatives.

This position requires hands-on experience with food processing equipment, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Oversee Operation, Maintenance, and Daily Coordination of Pilot Plant Activities

• Operate, clean, and maintain pilot plant equipment and facilities.
• Ensure equipment is prepared, available, and functional for scheduled projects.
• Support setup and teardown for trials, production runs, and research activities.
• Coordinate daily activities to maintain an orderly, safe, and compliant work environment.
• Report equipment issues and assist with preventive maintenance and repair scheduling.

2. Provide Technical Support for Client Projects, Faculty Research, and Student Initiatives

• Provide technical assistance to clients, faculty, and students using pilot plant facilities.
• Support the execution of process trials, sample preparation, and product testing.
• Maintain accurate records of pilot plant activities, production data, and materials used.
• Assist in preparing client proposals for pilot plant services, including defining scope and estimating equipment and resource needs, as applicable.

3. Train Support Staff, Students, and External Clients

• Assist in training students, co-op staff, and external clients on the safe and proper operation of pilot plant equipment.

4. Maintain Documentation and Implementation of Food Safety and Quality Programs

• Collaborate with the HACCP Coordinator to uphold and document all aspects of GFIC’s Food Safety and Quality Programs.

5. Oversee and Support Co-op Student Activities

• Supervise and guide the pilot plant co-op student in routine operational tasks including but not limited to:
• Receiving and organizing materials/deliveries.
• Conducting product inventories.
• Completing production documentation and cleaning records.
• Maintaining general organization and cleanliness of the pilot plant.
• Storing ingredients and supplies.
• Performing freezer and cooler temperature checks.

6. Technical Support for Short Courses

• Provide technical support in the planning, setup, and operation of equipment for GFIC short courses.
• Ensure equipment and materials are ready and functional for demonstrations and hands-on sessions.

7. Develop and Maintain SSOPs and SOPs

• In collaboration with the HACCP Coordinator, create, update, and implement Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent compliance with food safety and quality standards.

• Order supplies and ingredients as required.
• Coordinate with GFIC administration to schedule trials, training sessions, and short courses.
• Request quotes for new equipment and parts for existing equipment.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, Food Processing Technology, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.

Experience

• 3 years of experience in food processing, pilot plant, or manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience operating, cleaning, and maintaining food processing equipment (e.g., pasteurizers, homogenizers, evaporators, spray dryers, membrane systems, etc.).
• Experience working within a HACCP or food safety-certified facility is an asset.
• Knowledge of GMPs, SSOPs, and quality assurance programs.
• Familiarity with R&D or small-scale food production preferred.
• Experience mentoring or training staff or students is considered an asset.

• Strong technical aptitude and mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining a safe, clean work environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and basic data documentation.

• This position requires hands-on work in a food processing pilot plant environment.
• Physical activity, including standing for extended periods, and working in variable temperature conditions, may be required.
• Occasional flexibility in schedule may be required to accommodate pilot trials or short courses.

Employee Type: Temporary 
Position Number: 10924745 
Classification: USW, Local 4120 Salary: Band 6  
USW Local 4120 Wage Grid

*Tentative evaluation; subject to final review.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 02/11/2026  
Closing Date: 02/17/2026