R&D Lab Technologist

Overview

Purpose:

Dole Packaged Foods is a purpose led organization that is a champion of accessible fruit nutrition and builds a brighter future for people through the goodness of fruit.

At Dole, our culture is uniquely driven by core Values. Our commitment to these Values transforms our work into a meaningful journey toward a brighter future together. Here, you'll be part of a respectful, inclusive culture that deeply values our colleagues, customers, and global communities. We strive for excellence, empowering each other to confidently overcome challenges, continuously learn, and achieve world-class results. Guided by unwavering integrity, our actions consistently reflect our commitment to always doing what's right, fostering lasting trust and strong relationships. Through a spirit of collaboration, we cultivate positivity, generosity, and genuine teamwork, enabling collective success toward our One Dole Purpose. Our innovative spirit leads directly to meaningful outcomes and business success.

The R&D Lab Technologist supports the Product Development & Innovation (PDI) team by executing hands-on laboratory work that helps bring new food products from concept through commercialization. This role is responsible for preparing samples, conducting lab-scale testing, maintaining the R&D lab environment, and supporting product development, evaluation, and plant trials across multiple product categories, including snacks, beverages, and frozen foods.

R&D Lab Technologists apply established methods, protocols, and procedures to support formulation, testing, and documentation, working under the guidance of the PDI Management team. This role is primarily hands-on and operational, with increasing technical scope and independence by level.

On-site presence 5 days per week at the Westlake Village office is required.

Responsibilities

Primary Accountabilities:

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized R&D lab, including inventory management, storage, sanitation, and basic equipment upkeep
• Prepare ingredients, samples, and materials for lab trials, sensory testing, and product evaluations
• Conduct routine lab‑scale experiments, stability testing, and bench testing following established procedures
• Accurately record data, observations, and results from trials and evaluations
• Support sensory testing, product cuttings, and data compilation
• Assist with preparation, maintenance, and organization of formulations, specifications, and technical documentation
• Pack, ship, and receive time‑sensitive samples for internal testing, external analysis, consumer research, and customer meetings
• Support commercialization activities, including pre‑ and post‑plant trials and sample distribution
• Follow food safety, quality, and lab best practices (e.g., GMPs, HACCP, SOPs)
• Collaborate with cross‑functional partners such as Quality, Supply Chain, Regulatory, and Operations as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Typical Responsibilities:

• Prepare samples and ingredients for lab trials and evaluations
• Perform basic lab tests, measurements, and observations
• Clean and organize lab spaces, tools, and equipment
• Assist with sample packing, shipping, and receiving
• Enter data and maintain organized records

Qualifications

Experience, Knowledge, & Skills You Bring:

• Internship, academic lab, or limited industry lab experience preferred
• Foundational knowledge of food science, chemistry, or related scientific principles gained through coursework or academic lab experience
• Ability to follow detailed instructions, SOPs, and established testing protocols with accuracy and consistency
• Basic understanding of food safety, quality, and lab best practices (e.g., GMPs, sanitation, safe food handling)
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn hands-on lab techniques and equipment operation
• Effective time-management and organizational skills to handle multiple routine tasks
• Comfort using basic digital tools (e.g., Excel, Word, email) for data entry and documentation
• Demonstrates curiosity, reliability, and a positive, team-oriented approach to learning

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• Passionate about a purpose driven career
• Passionate about collaborating respectfully in diverse and inclusive team environments
• Proactively seeks feedback and continuously improves work quality
• Consistently adheres to ethical standards and maintains transparency
• Actively contributes to achieving collective team goals

Education & Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree (completed or in progress) in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, or related science-based field

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit and use the computer for extended periods of time; ability to answer phones and use a variety of office equipment; ability to lift 15 pounds and reach overhead.

Travel Requirements:

• Occasional local travel will be required

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

FOR JOBS BASED IN CALIFORNIA:

Hiring Pay Scale: $28 to $33

Dole Packaged Foods is committed to paying our Associates fairly and equitably. The pay rate offered will consider a wide range of factors, including but not limited to experience, education, accomplishments, and location. Pay scales are subject to review on a regular basis and will be updated as appropriate.