Sensory Technician

JOB SUMMARY:

Support the Kroger Our Brands and Corporate Food Technology teams through various laboratory-related functions based on the changing needs of manufactured and procured Our Brands products under the direction of Technologists. Assist other lab technicians as needed. Perform all jobs safely, efficiently, and accurately to maintain and improve the performance in the areas of Safety, Quality, Reliability (SQR) and Customer 1st strategy.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• This hybrid position will be required to work in the Kroger Office at least two days per week based on your team’s schedule
• Assume a leading role in managing the process for new product development of KLP and KMP items
• Initiate and maintain contact with suppliers to communicate needs
• Track and report the status of projects to CFT Technologist and other business units
• Independently coordinate, set up, and assist in conducting product sensory evaluations, cuttings, audits, and communicate results
• Monitor and manage production samples and mail on a daily basis for quality and distribution; manage sample retention
• Verify retail package nutrition labeling for accuracy
• Prepare recipes and verify retail package preparation/cooking directions for accuracy
• Utilize appropriate databases as required to meet business needs
• Assemble and prepare formulations, along with performing clean-up of equipment and utensils as directed by technologist
• Participate in a wide variety of food product evaluations
• Independently perform general duties as required to assure a smooth workflow in the laboratory as directed by technologist
• Efficiently coordinate work demands of at least 3 technologists in a timely manner
• Coordinate and collaborate with the CFT Sensory Manager to assist with product sensory evaluations
• Report quality issues to technologist
• Follow established programs, policies, and practices to produce safe, quality foods that meet regulatory and company requirements
• Issue cutting and audit reports and paperwork as directed by technologist
• Manage daily and ongoing cleaning of lab equipment, dishes, utensils, and stocking of lab supplies
• Independently calibrate and run various pieces of lab equipment after being trained
• Support the development, implementation, maintenance, and ongoing improvement of the SQF Systems
• Ability to multi-task and be flexible in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
• 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

MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent, preferably a 2-year culinary or technical degree
• Ability to analyze information, form a conclusion, and communicate the results
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and learn new and different aspects of the job quickly
• Be a self-starter with the ability to work independently and complete concurrent multiple assignments
• Proficient in:  Microsoft Office, Calendar Booking, and other database systems
• Ability to prioritize and organize responsibilities based on changing and challenging deadlines
• 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

MINIMUM PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

• Must be able to:
  • Most weeks require standing up to 7.5 hours per day, multiple times a week
  • Lift up to 50 pounds
  • Tolerate temperature fluctuations and working in cold areas such as freezers

PREFFERED EXPERIENCE:

• Laboratory or food-related experience, especially science-related experience or kitchen/restaurant experience
• Science, chemistry, biology, math, and/or statistics classes
• Previous support person for multiple people

COMPETENCIES/SKILLS:

Some of the Competencies/Skills required to successfully perform this position are:

• Adaptability – maintaining effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or the work environment; adjusting effectively to work within new work structures, processes, requirements or cultures
• Building Strategic Working Relationships – developing and using collaborative relationships to facilitate the accomplishment of work goals
• Building Trust – interacting with Kroger employees, customers and suppliers in a way that gives Kroger Division and Corporate Management confidence in one’s intentions and those of the organization
• Communication – clearly conveying information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups in the English language
• Customer Focus – making Kroger customers and their needs a primary focus of one’s actions; developing and sustaining productive relationships with Kroger employees as well as the suppliers that we represent
• Decision Making – identifying and understanding issues, problems and opportunities; comparing data from different sources to draw conclusions; using effective approaches for choosing a course of action or developing appropriate solutions; taking action that is consistent with available facts, constraints and probable consequences
• Inclusion – appreciating and leveraging the capabilities, insights and ideas of all individuals; working effectively with individuals of diverse style, ability and motivation for a direct effect on business results
• Initiating Action – taking prompt action to accomplish objectives; taking action to achieve goals beyond what is required; being proactive; generating innovative solutions in work situations
• Leadership – ability to recognize and provide training opportunities; give clear direction to accomplish assigned tasks; hold others to high standards of accountability and address issues when needed in a way that encourages, not discourages the employee
• Negotiation – effectively exploring alternatives and positions to reach outcomes that gain the support and acceptance of all parties
• Self-Starter – working the majority of the time without direct supervision; prioritizing, organizing and completing workload accurately within allotted time period
• Work Standards – setting high standards of performance for self and others; assuming responsibility and accountability for successfully completing assignments or tasks; self-imposing standards of excellence