R&D Associate

Job Title

Responsible for supporting R&D initiatives by performing technical tasks that enable product development, testing, and production readiness.

Duties and Responsibilities

Adheres to and exemplifies behaviors aligned with company core values: We Work with Passion & Purpose (Ho'ohana), We Choose to do What is Right (Pono), We Work Together (Laulima), We Care (Mālama), We Take Ownership & Responsibility (Kuleana).

Fosters an environment of teamwork and collaboration, and an employee culture that is aligned with company core values and operating principles. Ensures all employees are treated consistently, fairly, ethically, and respectfully.

Responsible for following departmental directions and adhering to all product specifications, HACCP, GMPs, Food Safety, and Quality Programs.

Support product development activities, including benchtop and pilot/commercial scale trials.

Prepare trials and product samples using precise weighing, measurement, and documentation.

Operate and maintain laboratory and pilot-scale processing equipment.

Assist in execution of R&D trials in accordance with experimental protocols.

Collect, analyze, and document data; create technical summaries and reports.

Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments.

Conduct retention sample evaluations and shelf-life studies. Perform analytical testing, including moisture analysis and sensory evaluation.

Ensure accurate data entry and maintenance of laboratory records.

Prepare and package product samples for shipment.

Assist in inventory control processes, including inventory counts, reconciliation, and recordkeeping.

Assist with additional assignments and provide departmental support as required.

Skills

Represents the company brand image and share aloha to all customers, business partners, and coworkers at all levels throughout the company.

High School diploma or equivalent.

1+ years of related experience in food manufacturing, R&D, or related fields is preferred.

Strong organization, time management, verbal, and written communication skills.

Beginner level use of Microsoft programs excel, email, word.

Attention to detail and accuracy.

Flexible, committed, professional team player.

Self-motivated with ability to work independently.

Physical Demands

Able to sit or stand and walk throughout the scheduled work shift.

Good vision. Specific vision abilities include close vision 20 inches or less, (i.e., working with small objects or reading small print), including use of computers. Distance vision 20 feet or more, not just the ability to see a person or object, but the ability to recognize features as well, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Peripheral vision observing an area that can be seen up and down or to right or left while eyes are fixed on a given point.

Good hearing. Specific hearing abilities include the ability to hear, understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds (e.g., forklifts, packaging, machinery alarms), medical codes or alarms and communication purposes.

Able to lift and/or move up to 35 lbs.

Absence: During the absence or vacancy of the R&D Associate, the essential duties and functions will be covered by the R&D Technician.