Pilot Plant Operator

We are seeking a dedicated Pilot Plant R&D Operator who will primarily work in a lab setting conducting distillations on a pilot scale and performing various tasks related to citrus oils. This role requires a balance of lab work and hands-on manufacturing duties, providing a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct distillations on a pilot scale and manage samples using lab instruments such as beakers, pH testing machines, and Gas Chromatography machines.
• Document testing results using Excel and Word.
• Operate in a manufacturing setting, including working with distillation columns and packaging lines.
• Monitor distillation columns through computer systems and manually adjust valves as needed.
• Perform inventory management through paperwork transfers and process plumbing lineups.
• Package citrus oils in various containers and run Gas Chromatography analysis on samples.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety standards in the work area and adhere to GMP, HACCP, and Food Safety Standards.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and climb ladders.
• Strong mathematical skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Experience in chemical processing and automated control systems is a plus.

• Science degree in fields such as Chemistry, Biology, or Analytical Chemistry is advantageous.
• Technical knowledge of citrus oils is preferred.
• Experience in gas chromatography and general laboratory principles.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Team player with the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment.

The work environment is a mix of climate-controlled lab and non-climate-controlled manufacturing areas. The role involves working both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in heat. Employees work in shifts from 5am-5pm or 5pm-5am, on a 7 days on, 7 days off schedule, with 4-6 hours of scheduled overtime. The department consists of about 4 people, with collaboration across different teams totaling around 15 people.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Winter Haven, Florida.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Winter Haven,FL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 31, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $21 - $22