Research and Development Food Technician

Summary of Position: The R&D Food Technician is responsible for assisting in the innovation, development, and qualification of new products along with revisions to existing products. The Food Technician will work with the R&D Manager to assist in development and product modification initiatives that deliver on quality, ensure continuity of supply, and optimize plant efficiency. Reporting Relationship(s): Reports to R&D Manager Duties include: Assisting in the development of new and improved products as well as the organization’s research and development activities to accomplish business objectives. Participates in the execution of projects from concept stage through formulation, pilot batching, and successful first commercial production runs. Manages internal testing to develop and modify formulations that meet regulatory, manufacturing, and customer requirements. Works collaboratively with internal and external customers to design and optimize products, including SKU, ingredient, and packaging rationalization initiatives. Analyzes existing product SOPs, makes recommendations and leads the execution of improvements to formulas and production processes that streamline manufacturing and deliver cost savings. Creates product specifications, sales spec sheets, and formula cards. Collaborates with vendors, customers, and other departments as needed to execute projects and resolve product related challenges. Responsible for sample request program to support marketing and sales objectives, including set-up and maintenance of sample inventory. Prepares and assists with product cuttings for new and existing customers as needed. Maintaining the R&D lab to ensure adequate stock of ingredients, materials, and tools required for day to day operation Maintaining the R&D lab with a high level of overall cleanliness and organization Creation of product samples on an as-needed basis Building sample cases and coordinating shipping needs of product samples Preparing all products as required for daily evaluations Ensuring R&D coolers/freezers (including the sample area in the main freezer) are kept in a clean and organized manner and that product/ingredients are being properly rotated Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related field, formal culinary training, certification, or equivalent experience are required. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of experience in R&D in a food manufacturing environment, bakery experience is preferred. Knowledge of HACCP and SQF systems is a plus. Must be detail oriented, with excellent communication skills - both written and oral. Strong project management skills, with the ability to run multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize and find solutions to issues or conflicts that may arise in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to perform as part of a team across all levels of the organization. Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PPT) is a requirement. MRP/ERP system experience is a plus. Candidate should be able to work flexible hours including some weekends and early hours to support production testing as needed. Must be able to lift 50-pounds and work in an environment where you would be standing/walking for the entire shift Must be able to work in a hot, cold, and frozen environment when needed #J-18808-Ljbffr CareersInFood.com