What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pilot Plant Technician - Flexibles position at Toppan?
We are seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Flexible Packaging Pilot Plant Technician to support the development, testing, and scale-up of flexible packaging materials and processes. This role is critical in bridging the gap between lab-scale innovation and full-scale production, working closely with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to operate pilot-scale equipment and ensure successful trials. They will be part of a team whose goals are to support the operation of their department and meet the requests of our internal and external customers. This position requires the individual to perform all assigned duties in a safe manner, learn and become proficient on all pieces of equipment, maintain accurate records, and work with & provide feedback to internal and external customers.
What you’ll be doing:
- Safely operate all equipment
- Set up, operate, and maintain pilot-scale flexible packaging equipment (e.g., press, extruder, laminator, slitter, etc.).
- Assist in the execution of experimental trials and process development runs.
- Monitor and document process parameters, material usage, and trial outcomes.
- Collect and analyze samples for quality and performance testing.
- Troubleshoot equipment and process issues during trials.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support product development and process optimization.
- Assist in the preparation of technical reports and documentation.
- Perform repetitive, physical tasks, manual labor, and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Participate in and attend all required department and company training.
- Ability to work non-standard hours or travel, if required.
This position is locate out of Hartsville, SC and 100% onsite
We’d love to hear from you if:
- High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification in mechanical, chemical, or packaging technology preferred.
- 2 years of experience in a manufacturing, R&D, or pilot plant environment, preferably in flexible packaging or plastics processing.
- Additional education or formal training is preferred.
- Familiarity with flexible packaging materials (films, laminates, adhesives) and converting processes is a plus
- Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with industrial equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents, SOPs, and engineering drawings.
- Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, data entry, equipment interfaces).
- Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and teamwork.
- Desire to build positive and strong working relationships with all stakeholders.
- Good verbal and written communication skills – Technical writing skills, a plus.
- Good work ethic, initiative and a self-starter.
- Ability to work with a minimum of supervision.
- Ability to prioritize work to meet deadlines.
- Capable of multitasking and prioritizing
- Good time management & organizational skills.
- Capable of cross-training.
- Works well under pressure.
- Motivated to learn and acquire technical, packaging, processing and testing knowledge.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows and Office software
This is a progression level position