R&D Research Technician

POSITIONS KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

The Research Technician provides technical laboratory support for the R&D Department in support of product and process development initiatives. This role performs routine tasks and assignments up to moderate complexity with limited supervision, applying sound judgment, attention to detail, and critical thinking to execute work effectively. The Research Technician interfaces periodically with internal partners (e.g., R&D, Engineering, Marketing, Sales, QA, Operations) to support project milestones and deliverables.

Primary Responsibilities:

Technical Support (70%)

• Completes routine and non-routine R&D tasks and assignments under limited supervision by organizing, prioritizing, and executing tasks aligned to business objectives.
• Demonstrates the ability to manage daytoday priorities, adjust to changing project needs, and escalate issues as appropriate.
• Requests, prepares, uses, cleans, and stores laboratory equipment and supplies required for assignments. Uses equipment according to established instructions and procedures; performs minor, user-level checks as part of regular use.
• Writes and/or updates basic procedures related to equipment operation and departmental laboratory processes.
• Prepares samples and adheres to approved methodologies to ensure validity and reliability of experiments and analyses.
• Prepares prototypes in support of new product development and product or process improvements.
• Documents laboratory work, tests conducted, and results in lab notebooks or designated computerized systems.
• Contributes data, observations, and summaries for reports and project documentation; develops assigned reports as requested.
• Supports validation of raw materials, laboratory equipment, or processes and manages discrete segments of larger projects.
• Retrieves and maintains raw material specifications and technical documentation from suppliers and internal systems.
• Supports product cuttings by preparing samples and assisting with session setup
• Develops cooking instructions based on guidance from product developers or managers.
• Maintains a sanitary, safe, and organized work environment in compliance with safety, food safety, and quality standards.

Experiments & Analysis (30%)

• Provides support for basic laboratory and pilot plant experiments, independently or in collaboration with other associates.
• Conducts routine and nonroutine laboratory experiments and analyses in support of product and process development or improvement initiatives.
• Accurately evaluates, records, and communicates results to project team members.
• Uses established methods and procedures, making appropriate adjustments during experimentation (e.g., ingredient levels, sampling techniques) based on observations and direction.
• Applies critical thinking and problemsolving skills to identify issues, troubleshoot failures, and support interpretation of experimental data.
• Take accurate measurements from laboratory and pilot plant experiments.
• May conduct competitive and existing product analysis with direction from Manager or Developer

Knowledge/Skills/Experience :

• Associates degree in food preparation, food science, laboratory technology or related field OR
• 1 year of job-related experience in food-related laboratory testing, research, or handson food preparation in a highvolume or productionbased food environment (e.g., bakery, manufacturing kitchen, R&D kitchen)
• Ability to work effectively in a fastpaced, handson laboratory environment.
• Ability to extract and record data following standard procedures.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and documentation standards.
• Ability to apply basic critical thinking skills to routine technical problems.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a crossfunctional environment.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently; occasional lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of standing and walking between workstations
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, pushing and pulling; occasional climbing of steps and/or ladders.
• Use of hand tools and precision instruments requiring fine motor skills.
• Exposure to food ingredients, chemicals, cleaning agents, and varying temperatures.
• Onsite, regular, and predictable attendance as scheduled is required.

Nesco Resource offers a comprehensive benefits package for our associates, which includes a MEC (Minimum Essential Coverage) plan that encompasses Medical, Vision, Dental, 401K, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) services.