Global Technical: Science and Technology (S&T) provides technical leadership for Diageo’s Whisky, Spirits and Beer business globally.
The Laboratory Technologist for Packaging plays a critical role in ensuring that packaging solutions meet global standards for safety and performance. This position is responsible for implementing and validating the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) testing protocols, which are recognized worldwide as the best-in-class methodologies for assessing package performance and protecting contents during transit. The role holder should have a knowledge of existing Diageo packaging test methods and will be expected to support the standard packaging agenda where required.
The role is based at the Packaging Technology laboratory at the Diageo Technical Centre, Menstrie. The role holder will be expected to communicate with sites around the world and occasionally travel. This role reports to the Global Laboratory Senior Specialist- Packaging (Packaging Laboratory Manager).

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• IMPLEMENTATION AND VALIDATION OF ISTA TESTING. Implement and validate ISTA testing procedures to evaluate the performance of packaging, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices. Undertake ISTA training. Oversee the installation and proper configuration of testing equipment. Validate methodologies across Diageo’s diverse brand portfolio. Develop SOP’s.
• Support and contribute to the compliance agenda of the laboratory, encompassing health and safety regulations, financial protocols, and environmental standards.
• COMPONENT TESTING & PACKAGING MATERIALS KNOWLEDGE. Demonstrate expert knowledge of packaging materials utilized in the beverage alcohol industry and familiarity with packaging test methodologies, equipment maintenance, and method development. Execute Packaging component testing in the laboratory, applying the principles of Diageo’s Design for Quality. Carry out statistical analysis of results and present recommendations. Comprehend the application of components within Diageo’s processes, particularly concerning component interactions and machinery interfaces. Maintain awareness of packaging risk management and test method innovation. Exemplify positivity, curiosity, and a strong sense of ownership.
• PROJECT MANAGEMENT. Manage complex project effectively to ensure timely completion while adhering to budget target. Develop and maintain a comprehensive project management plan that encompasses timelines and resource allocation. Exhibit comfort in navigating ambiguity and translating it into achievable project milestones. Prepare and monitor the Design of Experiments (DOE) to facilitate effective ISTA testing methodologies.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION. TRANSLATE SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS INTO COMPELLING AND INFLUENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR STAKEHOLDERS. EXHIBIT OWNERSHIP AND AWARENESS OF THE BUSINESS IMPLICATIONS, INCLUDING BENEFITS, RISKS, AND OPPORTUNITIES. PREPARE AND DELIVER A SUMMARY PRESENTATION UPON THE COMPLETION OF TESTING METHODOLOGY VALIDATION, THEREBY EDUCATING RELEVANT TEAMS ON THE OUTCOMES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS

• Extensive experience of production and testing of materials used in the food and drink packaging. Experience of testing novel/ emerging materials and methods would be beneficial.
• FOOD SAFETY: Good working knowledge of hygiene standards including HACCP.
• AUDITING: Lead ISO9001 audit qualification and experience would be beneficial.
  NETWORK: Good and active network in material science industry is preferred

EXCELLENCE IN SUPPLY CHAIN

• Develop and Upholds Standards – The role holder will be expected to embrace the standards, champion, and apply them effectively in their role and always adhere to them.
• Performance Management – The role holder will understand the importance of KPIs in driving performance and in embedding the sustainability ambition.

Continuous Improvement – the role holder will be expected to be flexible and embrace change, continually looking for ways to improve everything they do. They will use various continuous improvement tools and techniques to solve problems and scan for opportunities.

• Extensive experience of production and testing of materials used in the food and drink packaging. Experience of testing novel/ emerging materials and methods would be beneficial.
• FOOD SAFETY: Good working knowledge of hygiene standards including HACCP.
• AUDITING: Lead ISO9001 audit qualification and experience would be beneficial.

NETWORK: Good and active network in material science industry is preferred

ENTRY LEVEL REQUIREMENTS – CAPABILITIES, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• As a minimum at entry level the jobholder should be degree qualified in packaging technology, scientific or engineering discipline. Alternatively, a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a materials production or suitable laboratory.

QUALIFICATION/LICENSURE

Work Authorization : US Citizen
Preferred years of experience : 1 years
Travel required : No travel required

• Extensive experience of production and testing of materials used in the food and drink packaging. Experience of testing novel/ emerging materials and methods would be beneficial.
• FOOD SAFETY: Good working knowledge of hygiene standards including HACCP.
• AUDITING: Lead ISO9001 audit qualification and experience would be beneficial