Technician I - Research & Development

at  Acme Smoked Fish

The Technician I – R&D will provide support the R&D team by assisting in production trials, new product prototypes, customer requests, & internal or external tastings. The technician will develop and execute tasks for R&D team through strong communication and organization. The technician will also manage inventory, clean workspaces, and successfully plan & execute their day based on duties asked of them. Additional responsibilities will include assisting in food processing trials and new product commercialization and startup.

YOUR EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in food manufacturing/production environment or in an R&D food product development laboratory.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate’s Degree in Food Science or Culinary preferred.
• Sensory design and evaluation preferred.

YOUR SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Good cooking & presentation skills with a good sense of taste & smell.
• Strong work ethic.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills with a willingness to ask questions before proceeding with uncertainty.
• Demonstrated ability to present products at tastings and interact with leadership and cross functional teams.
• Ability to adapt to business needs.
• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Completion of training programs as assigned and/or required including standard of work.
• A thorough understanding of plant manufacturing operations.
• Basic understanding of ERP systems.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work Environment – Kitchen and Production Floor.
• The ability to work in cold (32 to 45F) and wet environment.
• Prolonged periods of standing.
• Exposure to low level of noise on production floor.
• Exposure to uneven ground and floor angles.
• Stretching, bending, pulling, etc.
• Travel – not required
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.

HEALTH & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

• Observe and follow all safety rules.
• Wear required PPE.
• Follow mandated OSHA regulations.
• Report all incidents including near misses immediately.

Compensation Range: $26.00 - $33.00/hour

• This compensation range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

• Assist in conducting experiments related to creating new and improving current products in our portfolio.
• Assist in packaging and equipment trials.
• Assist in new product startup by being present for all new product launches, ensuring adherence to specifications and tracking product quality.
• Ability to manage and organize multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Duties may include making trips to the grocery store, ordering products online, keeping stock of internal tasting supplies, and assisting in receiving incoming ingredients.
• Assist R&D team with internal and external tastings and making customer samples.
• Track product inventory by setting up time to make additional products for shipments, customers, and/or internal leadership team.
• Assist in food processing trials and commercialization.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and hygienic workspace with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standard.
• Other duties as assigned/needed.
  About You