Job Title: R&D Technologist

Job Description

We are looking for an R&D Technologist to join our team. The main responsibilities include conducting organoleptic testing to determine the flavors needed for new products and creating formulas in Excel. The role involves interfacing with vendors and clients to request samples, relay information, and ask relevant questions. There is also a sales aspect to this position.

Responsibilities

• Conduct organoleptic testing to determine flavors for new products.
• Create formulas using Excel.
• Interface with vendors and clients to request samples and relay information.
• Source ingredients to fulfill formula requirements.
• Develop formulas for customers.
• Quote new products for customers.
• Research regulatory requirements for ingredients, including trademarked and specialty ingredients.
• Create supplement and nutrition fact panels.
• Ensure labels meet FDA regulations.
• Review all incoming labels before production use.
• Mix samples for testing, tasting, and formula changes.
• Review technical data, client data, and product specifications.
• Obtain proper documentation from current and potential vendors.
• Research current markets and latest technologies to develop new product recipes.
• Involve in formulation design, cost calculation, ingredient sourcing, sample preparation, and new product scale-up coordination.
• Prepare Nutrition and Supplement panels in compliance with FDA regulations.
• Track and maintain records of formula experimentation.
• Prepare reports to track ingredient and formulation performance.
• Ensure food products are fit for distribution.
• Work on packaging innovation and technology.
• Clean, maintain, operate, and sanitize laboratory equipment.
• Communicate with vendors to source ingredients and packaging components.
• Assist with customer complaint investigations or product issues.
• Estimate costs, resources, and labor needed for product production.
• Perform market research on estimated costs and prepare bids.
• Discuss ways to improve food and nutritional product recipes.
• Update job knowledge by studying trends, reading professional publications, and participating in training and organizations.
• Communicate with customers to determine product specifications and requests.
• Work with shipping and receiving to develop processes on price costing and shipping programs.

Essential Skills

• 1 year of experience in R&D at a Food and Beverage company or a science degree in Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition, or related field.
• Proficiency in Excel, Outlook, and other MS software.
• Capability to interface with clients and vendors through email and phone calls.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in chemistry, biology, food science, or related field.
• Knowledge of FDA, SQF, FSMA, USDA Organic, GMP, Kosher, and Halal regulations.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Work Environment

The work environment is within a supplement and food manufacturing facility that is climate-controlled. The R&D Technologist will work primarily in the office with occasional visits to the attached production area. The facility can be chaotic at times and has a distinct smell due to the products produced. The work hours are Monday to Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM.