About the role

As an R&D Pilot Plant Technologist, you will be responsible for the daily operations of the Pilot Plant laboratory, focusing on hands-on execution of pilot-scale production activities. This role involves preparing raw materials, operating semi-industrial equipment, conducting pilot trials, and ensuring accurate documentation of results.

You will work closely with the Pilot Plant team and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and precise task execution, as well as support the preparation, packaging, and shipment of samples for internal and customer requests. For more complex matters, you will receive guidance from the R&D Pilot Plant Specialist or Technical R&D Manager.

Key responsibilities

Operate and monitor pilot plant equipment in compliance with safety and quality standards

Prepare raw materials according to provided formulations and lead pilot-scale production runs

Maintain high hygienic standards of equipment and work areas

Support preventive maintenance activities and promptly report technical issues

Assist in packaging and shipping samples for internal and customer requests

Follow all workplace safety, product safety, and hygiene procedures

Perform hands-on laboratory tasks and pilot-scale trials

Prepare, handle, and manage raw materials

Conduct basic laboratory analyses (e.g. fineness, moisture, rheology)

Enter data and maintain documentation in internal systems (e.g. SAP, Salesforce, Excel)

Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth daily operations

Share knowledge and expertise in cooperation with other departments

About you

Higher education in gastronomy, food science, confectionery, or a related field

Good computer skills (MS Office Suite, basic database management)

Communicative level of English

Willingness to work with laboratory equipment and semi-industrial machines

Accurate, well-organized, and highly committed

Valid sanitary and epidemiological clearance

SEP electrical qualifications (relevant level)

Technical and mechanical understanding

Strong health and safety mindset

Team-oriented with good collaboration skills

Good time management and attention to detail

We offer

Stable employment in the sweetest company in the world 🍫

Annual bonus based on individual performance

Private medical care at Lux Med (basic package fully funded by Barry Callebaut)

Fit Profit sports card co-financed by the company

PPE retirement savings program

Vacation subsidy under the Company Social Fund

Group life insurance

On-site parking

Chocolate at the office — for Christmas and many other occasions

Even more chocolate: quarterly chocolate allowance

Why join us

At Barry Callebaut, you’ll work with cutting-edge technology, passionate people, and the world’s best chocolate. Bring your creativity — we’ll give you the tools to make it real. 🍫