Job Description

Research and Development Technician- Westmont, Illinois

Position Overview

The Research and Development Technician supports the innovation team by monitoring laboratory operations and providing bench and administrative support. This role prepares prototypes, conducts analytical testing, maintains laboratory equipment and records, and keeps the R&D and pilot laboratory spaces clean and sanitary.

Key Responsibilities

• Follow detailed instructions from R&D developers to prepare assigned prototypes.
• Observe raw material interactions and document relevant observations.
• Conduct analytical testing of prototypes, competitor products, and samples using laboratory equipment. Collect data for analysis and shelf-life studies, as required.
• Set up, adjust, operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, including microscopes, refractometers, titrators, pH meters, and viscometers.
• Support innovation, cost-reduction, ingredient-substitution, and other research initiatives. Follow applicable laboratory procedures, food-safety practices, and company requirements.
• Assist Food Technologists with plant trials, new production runs, and product trial revisions. Maintain plant/laboratory spaces in a clean and sanitary condition.

Qualifications

• AS in Food Science or a related discipline required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Prior food-processing experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, required. GMP and HACCP training preferred.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and document observations and test results accurately. Strong organization, attention to detail, and laboratory equipment handling skills.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in laboratory and pilot-lab settings, with support for plant trials and production runs as needed.

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