Senior Research and Development Technician

Description

The Senior Research & Development Technician plays a key hands-on role in executing technical project work, supporting new product development, and advancing initiatives across all JBSS brands, private label products, and product categories. This position is responsible for day-to-day execution of multiple development workstreams under the guidance of R&D Scientists.

The role includes bench-top product development, sample preparation, pilot and plant-scale trials, shelf-life studies, and sensory evaluations. This individual works closely with scientists and cross-functional partners to move projects efficiently from concept through commercialization.

Functions of the Position:

• Execute hands-on technical project work with guidance and supervision from lead scientists and management.
• Develop new product prototypes and samples; conduct bench-top experimentation and pilot/plant-scale trials following experimental designs.
• Order, organize, and maintain ingredients and lab supplies; ensure laboratory workspaces are clean, sanitized, and well-organized.
• Prepare products for internal and customer tastings; coordinate and conduct sensory and shelf-life evaluations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, engineering, packaging, operations, food safety, marketing, sales, and other technical teams to support product development and customer requests.
• Partner with internal and external customers to fulfill new item and sample requests accurately, efficiently, and on time.
• Coordinate within the R&D team to facilitate tastings, collect feedback, and compile data to support development decisions.
• Work with production, procurement, and scheduling teams to secure ingredients and materials for samples, trials, and lab operations.
• Support scale-up and commercialization efforts by integrating new products into JBSS manufacturing, working closely with schedulers, supervisors, operators, packaging, QA, and related teams.
• Document JBSS processes and procedures; update and maintain accurate R&D records and documentation.

Education, Experience, and Knowledge:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in the food manufacturing industry, with exposure to R&D, production, or closely related functions.
• At least two (2) years of hands-on technical experience in areas such as R&D, bar manufacturing, chocolate panning, hot panning, cold panning, or roasting.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong organizational and coordination skills, with the ability to effectively serve as a liaison between R&D and operations teams.
• Excellent written communication skills, supporting clear documentation and effective cross-functional coordination.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage daily priorities, and collaborate productively with cross-functional teams.
• Comfortable using, or willing to learn, Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and email.
• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

The starting hourly range for this position is $25.90-$35.63. The hourly rate offered will be determined by factors including, but not limited to, experience, credentials, education, certifications, skill level required for the position, the scope of the position, and geographic location. In addition to the hourly rate, this position is eligible for performance-based incentives subject to the terms of the underlying plan.

Additionally, we provide a comprehensive benefits package that reflects our commitment to support the wellness of our colleagues and their families. This includes health benefits, professional growth support, generous paid time off benefits to support work/life balance, retirement benefits and other programs to support financial wellness. A full listing of our extensive benefits package can be found on our Company website, located here:

JBSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.