R&D Technician

Job DescriptionPatco Brands is one of the fastest-growing beverage companies in the United States. Independently owned, Patco has established itself by using a proprietary process with 100% Blue Weber Agave to innovate within the fast-growing ready-to-drink spirits category.Patco makes margaritas, tequila, hard seltzers, and other beverages under our own brands and for private labels. Our own brands and private labels, with nationwide distribution, include:Rancho La Gloria Ready to Drink MargaritasBig SipzKirkland Signature TequilaKirkland Signature Hard SeltzersPatco products are sold in every major retailer, including Costco, H.E.B., Kroger’s, Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods, just to name a few.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Summary:The R&D Technician supports the Research & Development team in the formulation, testing, and development of new beverage alcohol products, including RTD cocktails, hard seltzers, wines, and spirits. This is an entry-level role ideal for a candidate early in their food/beverage science career who is eager to build hands-on lab and product development experience.Responsibilities:Support new product development activities, including formulation trials, stability testing, and prototype development of RTD cocktails, hard seltzers, wines, and spiritsAssist other departments with new product development tasks as neededHelp identify opportunities for product improvementSupport project execution by helping track technical plans and timelines under guidance of senior team membersAssist with communication and coordination with flavor and ingredient suppliers to help ensure ingredient availabilityHelp monitor industry and alcohol trends and share relevant findings with the teamSupport Legal and senior scientists with formula filing documentation as neededAssist in tracking technical timelines for new product and research projectsPrepare sensory samples, compound dilutions, and blends for production under supervisionHelp gather information to support formulation decisions related to regulatory and label requirementsAssist with coordinating and executing product testingSupport compliance activities related to FDA and TTB requirementsConduct product quality tests, including shelf-life and product stability studies, under guidanceHelp maintain lab space, equipment, and general lab operationsAccurately document all experimental procedures in a laboratory or digital notebookRequirements:Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)0–2 years of experience in a lab, food/beverage production, or product development environment; internship experience welcomeBasic understanding of formulation, sensory evaluation, or quality testing principles a plusFamiliarity with alcohol beverage categories (RTDs, seltzers, wine, spirits) preferred but not requiredComfortable working with lab equipment and following standard safety protocolsStrong attention to detail and accurate record-keeping habitsAbility to follow established procedures while learning new techniquesGood communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across teamsBasic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word); familiarity with lab notebook software a plusMust be 21+ years of age (due to nature of alcohol product handling and testing)Ability to lift up to 25–35 lbs and stand for extended periods in a lab/production environmentMust be able to commute to SausalitoCompensation: $72,000-$85,000By applying for this position, we are collecting personal information from you. Please read our privacy notice in the link below for information on how we collect and process your personal information.