Ready to join a US Best Managed Company? Kent Precision Foods Group, a member of the Kent Corporation family of companies, has a fantastic opportunity to join our team as a Research and Development Lab Technician at the Bolingbrook, Illinois location!

A Research and Development Lab Technician will be involved in numerous aspects of R&D within all producing facilities and variety of products (dry blends, liquid sauces, RTD beverages and more). The primary function of the position will be to assist Food Scientists with sample creation and shipment as well as detailed feedback on formulations, directions for use, analytical parameters and beyond. The position will also include managing lab supply inventory, performing yield analysis and analytical testing. 

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Focus will be on the implementation of effective manufacturing of food safe products
• As needed, accurately make samples for customer’s evaluation, and send accordingly with all required information (letter, label, directions for use, additional supporting information)
• Collect quantitative and qualitative feedback on samples for evaluation, triangle or tetrad tests, etc. and tabulate for documentation and possible adjustments
• Perform analytical tests on existing products and new development, including but not limited to:
• pH, refractive index, water activity, specific gravity and bulk density, viscosity, salinity and colorimetry
• Research new ingredients and contact ingredient suppliers for information and samples
• Support data entry into development, production, and change management systems as required with training on specific software
• Product preparation as it relates to supporting customer visits, tradeshows, internal presentations and other activities
• Interact with Quality and Regulatory on compliance and plant quality issues
• Follow all plant GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) procedures.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• Some experience working in food manufacturing or food laboratory where GLPs, GMPs are standard preferred
• Ability to work independently and critically troubleshoot challenges
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to describe food products in detailed and descriptive ways
• Creative interest in food and new food trends/innovation/implementations

EDUCATION

• High School Diploma Required
• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science (preferred) or related field (chemistry, nutrition, engineering, etc.)