Conduct laboratory- and pilot-scale process technology experiments and document the results. Support R&D on feed materials, animal-feed additives and liquid fertilizers through analysis, test development and process optimization. Flexible hours and professional development are offered.
The role
As a laboratory and pilot plant analyst, you will prepare, carry out and document process technology experiments at laboratory and pilot scale. Your work will support the development and optimization of a new generation of feed materials, animal feed additives and liquid fertilizers.
You will be involved throughout R&D projects, working with fellow researchers to determine which experiments are needed and how to run them. You will prepare process equipment and test setups, modify them or help assemble them when needed, and carry out experiments safely and reproducibly. You will record methods and results in a lab journal and test reports, analyze your findings, and advise the project team on follow-up trials and possible improvements.
You will also maintain laboratory and process equipment, suggest process optimizations and new equipment, and help keep work instructions and procedures for safety and quality up to date. You will develop, document and validate tests in response to customer questions. When needed, you may support pilot-plant experiments or customer projects on site.
Testing and process technologies
Laboratory analyses focus on the functional properties of raw materials, additives and mixtures, and how they relate to animal feed production. Formulation development and testing are also part of liquid fertilizer production.
Relevant process technologies include grinding and mixing powders and granules, pelleting, extrusion, drying and coating. The role also calls for an interest in rheological testing, using a push-pull testing machine to assess physical properties, and thermal analysis techniques. You should be able to work with common analytical techniques for raw materials, enzymes and bioactive substances used in feed and fertilizers.
What you bring
- A completed HBO (higher professional education) qualification or a university bachelor’s degree, preferably in process technology, chemical technology, food technology or a related field.
- Experience as a laboratory or pilot-plant technician in process technology, food technology or an R&D environment is an advantage.
- Affinity with and knowledge of the process technologies listed above is an advantage.
- Good spoken and written English.
- A flexible, proactive and independent approach, with accuracy, critical thinking and attention to detail.
- An interest in research and collaboration on innovation; the ability to work well in project teams and meet deadlines; and openness to continuous improvement and making suggestions.
- The ability to carry out and document experiments accurately.
What is offered
- An informal, friendly working environment with motivated, professional colleagues.
- A good work-life balance.
- A market-aligned salary and good benefits, including 8% holiday allowance, flexible working hours, the possibility of working from home and a bonus.
- Various training and coaching programs to support your development and career planning.
- Trust and autonomy to make a long-term contribution to better animal nutrition and healthy crops.
The position is based in Wageningen, Gelderland.