Research & Development Technician

Job Summary: We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented R&D Technician to join our Research & Development team. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the development, testing, and evaluation of new and existing food products. This role involves conducting development trials, performing sensory evaluations, documenting activities, collaborating with various teams, and ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation standards.

Key Responsibilities and Skills:

Product Development:

• Conduct development trials by pulling raw materials, weighing, blending, performing quality control (QC), cooking/baking/frying, and preparing finished products.
• Provide samples and results for first production runs.

Sensory Evaluation:

• Conduct sensory evaluations and taste tests to assess product quality and consumer preferences.
• Analyze sensory data and provide recommendations for product improvements.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Assist the R&D team with detailed records of all R&D activities, including formulation trials, test results, and process changes.

Product Testing:

• Monitor product stability and shelf life.
• Analyze test results and take corrective actions if necessary.
• Conduct blending and testing of rework products to ensure quality and consistency.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with other R&D members.
• Participate in cross-functional teams for product development projects.
• Communicate effectively with team members and management.
• Serve as a backup Quality Control Inspector when short-staffed.
• Assist in the pricing process by logging time spent on each project.

Customer Interaction:

• Assist in developing product samples for customer evaluation.
• Prepare and send samples to customers, including pulling raw materials, weighing, blending, performing QC, and packing for shipment.

Training and Development:

• Attending relevant training sessions, workshops, and conferences.

Safety and Sanitation:

• Ensure all R&D activities comply with safety and sanitation standards.
• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory and work area.
• Implement and follow proper procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous materials.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field is preferred.
• At least one year experience in a food manufacturing environment is a must
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and software for data analysis.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• The position requires working in a laboratory and production environment.
• Must be able to lift and move materials up to 50 pounds.
• May require standing for extended periods and working in various temperature conditions.

Other Duties:

·       Follow food safety and quality protocols.  

·       Follow GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), housekeeping and safe work practices.  

·       Other duties as assigned.  

Benefits:

Circle U Foods offers a benefits package that includes:  

·       Company paid employee-only health (HMO), dental, vision, and life insurance. A PPO health plan is offered with a cost share.   

·       Voluntary insurance plans for short-term disability coverage, Accident and Critical Illness.  

·       Additional voluntary life insurance policy available  

·       COVID and Flu incentive - 8 hours per vaccination dose  

·       Accrued Paid Time Off: 0-5 years, 2 weeks; 5-10 years, 3 weeks; 10+ years 4 weeks

Equal Opportunity Employer
Circle U Foods, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Conditions of Employment

·        Eligibility to Work: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and provide appropriate documentation to complete the I-9 verification process.

·        Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

·        Transportation Requirement: Applicants must have reliable transportation to and from work to meet job attendance and punctuality requirements.

·        Pre-Employment Screening: Candidates must successfully pass a background check and drug test.

COVID-19 Considerations
Vaccination is not required; however, vaccination incentives are offered.