R&D Technician - Meals and Baking Solutions at General Mills in Minneapolis, MN

Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW We exist to make food the world loves. But we do more than that. Our company is a place that prioritizes being a force for good, a place to expand learning, explore new perspectives and reimagine new possibilities, every day. We look for people who want to bring their best — bold thinkers with big hearts who challenge one another and grow together. Because becoming the undisputed leader in food means surrounding ourselves with people who are hungry for what’s next.​ 
 OVERVIEW The Grain & Flour Quality Lab supports General Mills flour-using businesses and five flour mills by providing reliable testing, technical insight, and practical direction for flour production and use. The lab evaluates wheat and flour characteristics, supports innovation and troubleshooting, and helps identify opportunities to reduce cost or improve functionality. This role serves as a primary bench analytical technician, producing accurate, timely, and well-documented results that help internal partners make sound decisions. The successful candidate will be curious to learn about wheat, flour, milling, baking, and General Mills, and will contribute to both near-term project work and longer-term improvements. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES Maintain the laboratory in a safe, sanitary, organized, and ready-to-use condition, including inventory of supplies and reagents Learn and perform a broad range of wheat and flour tests, following established methods consistently and recognizing when results require additional review or clarification. Operate test-milling and other laboratory equipment and execute experiments that support milling, baking, and flour-application projects. Build proficiency across the lab's test methods and provide reliable backup coverage, including for specialized testing. Prepare, identify, test, retain, distribute, and log samples in a way that maintains traceability and supports efficient project execution. Record, organize, review, and manage data accurately using Excel, databases, and other software systems; prepare and disseminate customer documents such as Certificates of Analysis (COAs). Communicate test results, observations, status, and questions clearly and appropriately to internal and external customers Work through ambiguity by clarifying objectives, identifying next steps, asking thoughtful questions, and escalating risks or issues early. Work autonomously and manage priorities with consistent follow-through, while knowing when to seek input or involve others Adapt to changing project needs and maintain flexibility in the work schedule to support testing, bake schedules, and team priorities. Contribute as a dependable, collaborative team member across grain, R&D, plant, and other internal and external partnerships. Understand and comply with General Mills requirements and policies and complete assignments in a safe, constructive, and professional manner. Skills/Training Required: Attention to detail and a commitment to accurate, consistent execution. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Math, analytical, and basic statistical abilities. Computer, database, and Excel acumen. Strong organization, planning, and process-management skills. Ability to learn, follow, and repeat test methods and understand the meaning of results. Ability to work independently, take initiative, and serve as a self-starter. Ability to manage ambiguity, solve problems, and adapt to changing priorities. Flexibility and willingness to work as a value-added team member Curiosity and willingness to learn more about wheat, flour, milling, baking, and General Mills. Tests to run include, but are not limited to: Moisture Protein – Leco Ash – Muffle Falling Number Farinograph/Extensograph Alveograph Starch Damage pH Glutomatic Color – Minolta Particle Size – Malvern, Ro-Tap Test Milling, Wheat Cleaning Test Bakes – Bread, Cakes, Cookies Treatment Spot Tests RVA Brookfield Viscosity SKCS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 2-year technical degree