Senior Technology Specialist - Dairy Process Technology

Join FrieslandCampina’s Global Supply Chain Technology Team

FrieslandCampina's Global Supply Chain Technology team is entering an exciting phase of technical innovation and operational excellence.

As senior technology specialist, you'll serve as our highest-level expert in dairy process technology, translating cutting-edge technological developments into tangible business impact across our global factory network. You'll drive strategic technical initiatives, lead complex problem-solving efforts, and shape the future of dairy processing technology.

Ready to bring our factories to the next level of performance while mentoring the next generation of technical experts?

What We’re Looking For

You're a technical leader who combines deep expertise with strategic thinking. You thrive on solving complex challenges, connecting dots across disciplines, and turning technological insights into business opportunities. You're curious about innovation, structured in your approach, and passionate about sharing knowledge.

Your profile includes:

• academic master's degree, PhD, or PDEng in Process Technology, Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, or related field;
• minimum 10 years of relevant experience in food, chemical, or engineering companies with progressive technical responsibility;
• in-depth knowledge of dairy process technology and comprehensive understanding of dairy production processes;
• proven track record in process licensing for major capex projects (€10M+), including technology selection and implementation;
• strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, ideally with Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification;
• demonstrated project and stakeholder management skills in dynamic, multicultural environments;
• experience collaborating with internal and external partners to drive technological advancements;
• fluency in English; additional languages are valued for our international context

What We Offer

Development & Growth:

• comprehensive learning programs and executive coaching;
• cross-functional development opportunities across our global organization;
• tailored development plans with exposure to strategic initiatives;
• exceptional support of cross-disciplinary movement to broaden your knowledge and growth paths.

Rewards & Benefits:

• competitive salary aligned with the seniority of this role;
• performance-based bonus opportunities;
• flexible working arrangements (40-hour work week with hybrid options);
• competitive pension scheme and 8% holiday allowance;
• health & wellbeing initiatives;
• bike plan and corporate fitness scheme;
• free milk, cheese, fruit and barista coffee at our headquarters.

Your Impact:

• global recognition as senior technology specialist within our international network;
• opportunity to shape dairy processing technology standards across multiple factories worldwide;
• autonomy and trust to create longer term impact that helps bring better nutrition to the world;
• friendly and informal working environment with professional team members as sparring partners.

Role Overview

As senior technology specialist, you'll be the go-to expert for dairy process technology across FrieslandCampina's global factory network, driving technical excellence and translating innovation into measurable business results.

Your key responsibilities:

Technical Leadership:

• lead root cause analyses of complex factory problems and drive sustainable, scalable solutions;
• translate expert knowledge into dairy technology standards and validate their implementation across our factories;
• identify and pursue opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality through process innovation.

Strategic Projects:

• own process licensing for major capex projects (€10M+) within your area of expertise, ensuring optimal technology selection and implementation;
• translate and scale up R&D innovations to production environments, bridging the gap between lab and factory floor;
• take ownership of multidisciplinary projects, bringing innovative ideas and methods to enhance outcomes.

Collaboration & Integration:

• work closely with R&D, Operations, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Marketing to ensure technology initiatives align with overall business strategy;
• collaborate with internal and external partners to stay at the forefront of technological advancements;
• participate in international conferences and professional networks, translating relevant advances into new business opportunities.

Knowledge Development:

• contribute to long-term technology strategy by developing and sharing a clear vision for your area of expertise;
• provide training, guidance, and technical support to build capabilities across the organization;
• ensure all technical work complies with relevant regulations and industry standards.

You will report to the technology manager and work within a multidisciplinary team spanning R&D, Operations, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and technical experts across our global network.

Team Details

The Global Supply Chain Technology team consists of approximately 60 technologists organized into 6 specialized expertise teams. We're the technical backbone of FrieslandCampina's production network, driving innovation and operational excellence across our global factories. Our team bridges the gap between cutting-edge research and practical production reality, ensuring our facilities operate at the highest technical standards.

You'll be based at FrieslandCampina's Innovation Centre in Wageningen, the heart of our research and development activities. Here, we combine cutting-edge science with practical application, working alongside researchers, technologists, and product developers to drive innovation from concept to factory implementation. Wageningen's vibrant knowledge ecosystem—home to Wageningen University & Research—provides unique opportunities for collaboration and staying at the forefront of food technology developments.

About our location:

• state-of-the-art facilities with pilot plants and testing capabilities;
• collaborative environment connecting research, technology, and operations;
• easily accessible location in the heart of Food Valley;
• free milk, cheese, fruit and barista coffee to fuel your innovation.

Our technology team is characterized by curiosity, analytical rigor, and collaborative spirit. You'll work alongside passionate professionals who combine deep technical expertise with business acumen, all united in the mission to bring better nutrition to the world through technological excellence.