R&D Food Technician

Our goal is to transform the sweetener category from commoditized ingredients to a destination that unleashed shopper’s potential for better, healthier baking and beverages. We make coffee, tea and water taste better and help people live happier, healthier and longer lives by making it easy to reduce sugar.

We offer an excellent compensation and benefits package. Come grow with us!

This role is not a remote opportunity, it is on-site at our Manufacturing Plant in Indianapolis, Indiana.  

Scope:

The Technician, Research and Development provides support  for LWE, Sweetener and Concentrate projects;  and Shelf Life program; compounds formulas accurately, take physical analytical measurements and prepares and executes daily sensory panels and/or shelf life evaluations in accordance with written or oral instructions; maintains controls for the plant and R&D group, assists with data management, analysis and reporting; maintains inventory of samples for sensory and shelf life studies and may support other product development initiatives as requested.   The duties in this position are expected to evolve over time as a result of the company’s growth and expansion into new technologies.

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities: 

• Follows detailed instructions and works independently with light supervision.
• Collects, manages and maintains sensory or shelf life inventory.  Includes sample receipt, labeling, placement in appropriate environment, removal at defined intervals for stability testing and archiving/disposal of samples at end of study.
• Monitors stability chambers and chart recorders to confirm environmental conditions are maintained within established specifications; maintains physical and electronic shelf life testing files and database following established procedures.
• Executes daily sensory panels including set-up, entering electronic ballots, serving samples, monitoring panelists and clean-up.   
• Compounds formulations accurately and routinely.
• Maintains ingredients in the lab to quickly and easily compound formulas.
• Maintains approved controls for the R&D group and for the plant
• Maintains the flavor library of LWE concentrates for the R&D group.
• Conducts routine chemical, physical, nutrient or stability analyses of samples following established protocols.
• Maintains physical and electronic analysis files and databases; applies statistical principles and assists in preparing reports communicating test results; reports atypical results or deviations to supervisor and initiates investigation and retesting if appropriate.
• Prepares and submits samples for outside testing, monitors progress and records results in database.
• Develops reviews and updates relevant SOP’s.
• Responsible for food safety and food quality of samples handled by:
  1. Following GMP’s, maintaining sanitary conditions, adhering to safe work practices and ensuring that product quality is maintained.
  2. Reporting any conditions or practices that may adversely impact food safety, food quality or personal safety to supervisor.
• Maintains consistent attendance; must have flexibility to work extended hours or off shifts if required.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science preferred, Nutrition, Chemistry, Biology or related field acceptable on a case by case basis.
• Minimum of 3 years of laboratory experience with ability to calibrate and operate standard food lab equipment required or lab experience during undergraduate studies.
• Excellent mathematical skills and knowledge of, or ability to learn, statistical analysis required.
• Computer literacy including competency with Microsoft Office and demonstrated ability to operate complex software programs required.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, proficiency in speaking, comprehending, reading and writing English required.

Physical Demands: 

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions 
• Must be able to work seated using a computer and phone for long periods of time.
• Must be able to work extended hours, such as daily overtime and an occasional weekend 
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records 
• Continuous walking throughout plant and distribution center.
• Lifting up to 40 pounds