R&D TECHNICIAN

Job Summary:

The R&D Technician will be a skilled and detail-oriented person that will assist in the development, testing, and optimization of new and existing products. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, quality assurance, supply chain and manufacturing, to ensure that products meet company standards and consumer expectations.

This position is located in our New Hope, MN facility. It is not a remote position.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Product Development Support:

o Assist in the formulation and preparation of prototypes for new product concepts.

o Conduct ingredient trials, material evaluations, and process optimization studies.

o Document formulation changes and maintain accurate records of development activities.

2. Testing and Quality Assurance:

o Perform laboratory and pilot-scale tests to evaluate product performance.

o Assist in sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, and stability testing.

o Support quality assurance by analyzing new raw material samples and ensuring compliance with specifications.

3. Process Improvement:

o Collaborate with the Product Development team and production team to refine product formulations and manufacturing processes.

o Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.

4. Regulatory and Compliance:

o Ensure all products meet regulatory, safety, and labeling requirements.

o Maintain awareness of industry trends and regulatory updates relevant to the CPG industry.

5. Technical Documentation:

o Prepare detailed reports, including test results, product specifications, and production guidelines for all products during the product lifecycle

o Assist in the creation of manufacturing work instructions for new products being launched.

6. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

o Work with marketing, supply chain, and production teams to transition products from development to commercialization.

o Support troubleshooting activities during scale-up and full-scale production runs.

Qualifications:

• Education:

Bachelor’s degree in, Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a related field preferred; relevant technical experience may substitute.

• Experience:

1-3 years in product development, lab testing, or a similar technical role within the CPG Food industry.

• Skills:

o Strong understanding of ingredient functionality and product formulation.

o Proficiency in laboratory techniques and familiarity with testing equipment.

o Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

o Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Technical Expertise:

o Knowledge of CPG production processes and equipment in the shelf-stable snacking industry.

o Familiarity with regulatory guidelines and quality standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP, FDA regulations).

Key Competencies:

• Attention to detail and precision in tasks.

• Adaptability to evolving priorities and timelines.

• Effective communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.

• A proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges.

This role offers a dynamic environment for innovation and creativity in the CPG sector, with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge products that reach consumers worldwide.

Physical Requirements:

Sit for extended periods of time, ability to type, talk and communicate, visual ability to use a computer, move around facility, occasional bending and lifting up to 40 pounds.

Working Environment:

Typical office and manufacturing working conditions. May be exposed to moving equipment and machinery. Shared office space.

Pay Range:

The expected pay range for this position is $24 to $34 per hour. This range reflects various factors such as education, skills, work experience, certifications, and more. Therefore, the final compensation for the selected candidate may fall anywhere within this range.

Benefits:

Good Sense Foods offers a comprehensive benefit package including health, HSA with company match, dental, life, long and short term disability, accident, critical illness, 401K with company match, prepaid legal plan, and education reimbursement.

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: Good Sense Foods. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, age, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.