Jobid=45b3f302d186 (0.0279)
Where will you be working?
Avebe is a leading cooperative of potato growers specializing in the extraction and development of high-quality potato-based ingredients for the food, feed, and industrial markets. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Avebe transforms every part of the potato into valuable products such as starches and proteins that meet the growing demand for plant-based solutions worldwide. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Avebe operates internationally, combining cutting-edge research with a commitment to supporting its members and contributing to a more sustainable food system.
Department
The Process Innovation & Development department focuses on advancing and optimizing Avebe’s starch and protein processing technologies. With a team of 11 dedicated professionals, the department drives innovation through process modeling, pilot-scale experimentation, and the development of sustainable production methods that enhance product quality and efficiency across Avebe’s value chain.
The position
Avebe is seeking a Process Engineer/Food Technologist to lead the development, optimization, and support of production trials within food processing, with a particular focus on extrusion, powder handling, and dextrination. This position requires proven expertise in the production of flakes and granules to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality operations while driving continuous improvement and innovation. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills to collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organization.
Key responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and optimise production processes with a focus on extrusion, powder handling, and dextrination technologies, ensuring scalability and reproducibility.
- Lead or participate in processing of flakes and granules (improvement) projects aimed at increasing throughput, reducing costs, and improving sustainability metrics.
- Plan and execute trials, tests, and validation studies for new raw materials, products, or equipment to confirm feasibility and performance.
- Analyse production data and process parameters to identify bottlenecks, trends, and opportunities for optimisation, and recommend data-driven solutions.
- Prepare, maintain, and update process documentation, including SOPs, work instructions, training materials, and process flow diagrams.
- Collaborate and communicate effectively with key stakeholders such as Product Line Managers, Line Technologists, Production Managers, Quality Assurance, and R&D to ensure alignment of priorities and smooth implementation of changes.
- Support capital investment projects by providing process engineering expertise, from conceptual design through commissioning and start-up.
- Contribute to new product development and scale-up, working closely with R&D to transfer laboratory/pilot results to full-scale production.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory, environmental, and food safety standards, actively contributing to audits and continuous improvement of quality systems.
- Train and mentor production staff and junior engineers on process engineering principles, best practices, and new technologies.
- Keep up-to-date with technological developments in food and chemical processing (especially extrusion, powder handling, and dextrination) and bring new ideas to improve competitiveness.
Education & experience
- University diploma (at least HBO level) in Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Solid knowledge of process engineering principles in a food or chemical production environment.
- Proven expertise in flakes and granules production
- Preferably experience with extrusion, powder handling and dextrination processes.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach.
- Proven ability to communicate clearly and effectively with multiple stakeholders across technical and management levels.
- Experience with data analysis and process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma or similar) is a plus.
- Proficiency with process-related software and MS Office tools.
Key Competencies
- Technical expertise in food/chemical production processes.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with Product Line Managers, Line Technologists, Production Managers and other stakeholders.
- Team player with good organisation and coordination abilities.
- Proactive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Safety and quality consciousness.
What we offer
- A dynamic and challenging role within an innovative food production environment, where you will be at the forefront of process development and optimization.
- Extensive opportunities for professional growth and ongoing training, enabling you to expand your technical expertise and advance your career within a forward-thinking organization.
- A competitive compensation and benefits package commensurate with your experience and qualifications, reflecting our commitment to attracting and retaining top talent
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