CFT LAB TECHNICIAN

Manage laboratory functions based on the changing needs of Kroger Manufactured Product (KMP) and Kroger Labeled Product (KLP), under the direction of Corporate Food Technology technologists. Perform all jobs safely, efficiently and accurately to maintain and improve the performance of the entire plant in the areas of Safety, Quality, Reliability (SQR) and our Customer 1st strategy. Provide leadership that embodies our 7 Kroger Manufacturing High Performance Work System principles. Demonstrate the company's core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion and safety.Minimum

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Ability to analyze information, form a conclusion and communicate the results
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and learn new aspects of the job quickly
• Be a self-starter and complete concurrent multiple assignments
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Ability to prioritize and organize responsibilities
• Ability to cook and coordinate multiple cooking activities
• Excellent attention to detail, with high degree of accuracy and precision
• Adaptable to last-minute changes and shifting priorities
• Strong oral and written communication skills

• 2 year culinary or technical degree
• Laboratory or food-related experience, science-related or kitchen/restaurant experience
• Science, chemistry, biology, math and/or statistics classes

• Support the process for new product development of KMP and KLP items
• Initiate and maintain contact with suppliers to communicate needs
• Track and report the status of projects to the technologist and to other business units
• Independently coordinate, set up and assist in conducting product sensory evaluations, cuttings, audits and communicate the results
• Monitor production samples for quality and distribution and manage sample retention
• Verify retail package nutrition labeling for accuracy
• Prepare recipes and verify retail package preparation/cooking directions for accuracy
• Assemble and prepare formulations and clean-up equipment and utensils used
• Participate in a wide variety of food product evaluations
• Independently perform general duties as required to assure a smooth workflow in the laboratory
• Efficiently coordinate work demands of multiple technologists in a timely manner
• Coordinate and collaborate with the sensory manager to assist with product sensory evaluation
• Report quality issues to technologist
• Issue cutting and audit reports and paperwork
• Manage daily and ongoing cleaning of lab equipment, dishes, utensils and stock lab supplies
• Calibrate and run various pieces of lab equipment
• Physical demands include, but are not limited to, standing continuously throughout the shift, regularly lifting objects up to 50lbs and working in fluctuating temperatures such as in freezers and around ovens
• Follow established programs, policies and practices to produce safe, quality foods that meet regulatory and company requirements
• Support the development, implementation, maintenance, and ongoing improvement of the SQF 2000 Systems
• Accountable to the Kroger Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation