Location: Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin
Salary: Technician Grade 1 with a Salary Scale of €36,946 to €47,985
Closing Date: 04/06/2025 12:00 PM
Funded Full Time
Job Description
Duration: Temporary externally funded non Grant-in-Aid contract post, the indicative duration of which is 11 months, subject to contract. A panel may be formed from which future similar vacancies may be filled; such a panel will remain active for a maximum period of 12 months.
Basic Function
The successful candidate will be involved in the extraction and fractionation of high-value ingredients and recovery of nutrients from fish and marine by-products. They will assist partners and researchers in developing bespoke biorefinery and extraction processes for valorisation of fish and marine by-products, and support upscaling of selected processes. The primary role includes developing extraction technologies and valorisation strategies, with key responsibilities including:
* Assisting in developing clean and green extraction/bioprocessing technologies for nutrient and high-value ingredient recovery.
* Processing side streams and extracting ingredients for potential agri-food applications.
Background
This role is based in the Food Industry Development Department at Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15, which houses the National Prepared Consumer Food Centre. The Centre features state-of-the-art pilot processing facilities. The appointed person will support project activities and the industry support and R&D programmes. A key aspect involves working with food industry clients to meet their product and process requirements.
The project focuses on developing pilot-scale manufacturing processes for extracting valuable compounds from fish and marine by-products, targeting current waste streams. It involves applying conventional and novel extraction techniques to develop proteins and bioactives that meet EU food regulatory standards, with comprehensive characterization and testing.
Job Objectives
* Conduct extraction and fractionation experiments on fish and marine side streams, focusing on bioprocess development for valorisation and product development for food and feed applications.
* Assist in executing project work packages and sourcing necessary resources and equipment.
* Design experiments and characterize products regarding nutritional value, bioactivity, and functional properties.
* Develop SOPs and conduct risk assessments for equipment and processes.
* Validate concepts and products at pilot scale and facilitate transfer to industry.
* Source equipment, ingredients, and packaging materials for trials.
* Perform Health & Safety duties and contribute to safety management.
* Support Teagasc’s quality and customer service commitments.
* Participate in business planning and performance management processes.
* Ensure health, safety, and welfare of all staff and comply with legal obligations, including the Safety Statement.
* Perform other duties as assigned.
*This job specification is a general guide to duties and may be reviewed periodically with the post holder.
* A Level 7 qualification in Bioprocessing is advantageous.
* Relevant industry or related experience.
Skills
* Excellent laboratory, organizational, report writing, and data analysis skills.
* Proficiency in data handling and computer use.
* Experience with sample collection and pilot plant work.
* Familiarity with field work for bioprocessing research and monitoring.
* Experience operating pilot plant and food processing equipment.
* Analytical skills in food testing.
* Aptitude for multidisciplinary approaches.
Knowledge
* Understanding of the Irish agri-food landscape and analysis of by-products.
* Knowledge of instrument calibration and validation.
* Technical expertise in laboratory and pilot plant equipment.
* Familiarity with Microsoft Office.
* Knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, physical and sensory characteristics.
* Understanding of fish processing and by-product valorisation.
* Conscientious, disciplined, organized, and capable of working independently under deadlines.
* Attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders.
* Strong communication skills for knowledge transfer.
* Flexible, proactive attitude with effective task prioritization and customer focus.
Other
As driving is involved, candidates must meet legal requirements to drive unaccompanied on Irish roads.
(Temporary posts only)
Eligibility
This is an open public competition. If a current Teagasc employee succeeds, their current contract will end upon taking up this post. Essential qualifications, knowledge, skills, and competencies will be used in the selection process.
Gender, Diversity and Inclusion
Teagasc promotes an open, diverse, and inclusive workplace, respecting all backgrounds and perspectives. We are committed to 'Equal Opportunities, No Barriers, Active Inclusion' and welcome applications from diverse candidates.
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