Research & Development Lab Assistant

 Job Summary: 

Assist and support the R&D Manager and the department in the development of new products and improvement of existing products.  Under the direction of the R&D Manager fulfillment of sample requests from customers.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

·         Making experimental samples and performing various tests including sensory evaluation, moisture, pH and specific gravity measuring. 

·         Alongside management, conduct shelf-life studies and perform various tests including sensory evaluation, moisture, pH and color measuring. 

·         Preparing samples for customer requests including printing out recipes from the database, locating and weighing-out ingredients, making samples, packing, labeling, and shipping. 

·         Contacting ingredient supplies in order to request samples. 

·         Updating the E21 system with inventory changes. 

·         Preparing consumer product evaluations for the R&D personnel and the Sales team. 

·         Lab supply inventory management. 

·         Organizing samples and ingredients storage.  

·         Keeping lab room and lab equipment clean. 

·         Being willing to taste, touch, and smell food samples and food ingredients. 

·         Physical ability to perform tasks that may require prolonged standing and other activities necessary to perform job duties. 

·         The ability to maintain a clean and organized work environment. 

·         The ability to plan, prioritize, and organize work for project completion on a timely basis. 

·         Food industry experience preferred.  

·         Experience working with lab equipment preferred. 

·         Computer proficiency to include basic Microsoft Excel, Word, as well as Internet research skills.  

·         Experience using database system preferred. 

·         Follow safety standards in working with multiple services, tools, and equipment. 

·         Perform any and all other duties as instructed by leadership and management. 

Job Qualifications: 

  

·         Good verbal and written communication skills.