Research And Development Technician

Amylu Foods is hiring a Research and Development Technician to join our team.

This role would be during our first shift (6:00am – 3:00pm) and be located at our company headquarters at the following location:

1400 W 44th St

Chicago, IL 60609

Who are we?

Amylu Foods is a high-growth, woman-founded, natural and health CPG company, known for its fresh ingredients and hand-crafted recipes.

As pioneers in the chicken sausage category, we combine innovation with tradition, delivering bold and fresh flavors.

Rooted in Chicago and celebrating 100 years of craftsmanship, we continue to expand our product offerings and distribution nationwide, redefining the protein category.

We are seeking passionate and talented leaders to join our rapidly growing company for our next phase of growth.

Primary Responsibilities

Sample Processing and Trial Support

• Follow the product specification instructions and batch sheets to produce product samples.
• Collaborate with others in the R&D Kitchen to ensure efficient production and product evaluation.
• Verify that all products are produced in strict adherence to company specifications and involve QA, Operations, and R&D in any deviations.
• Collaborate with Operations and QA to overcome obstacles and maintain smooth operations throughout the plant.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Sample Inventory Management and Shipment Fulfillment

• Maintain sample storage areas for R&D (R&D Kitchen, refrigerated storage in plant, frozen storage in plant)
• Retrieve samples of prototypes or stock SKUs as requested by management
• Communicate to management when stock SKU inventory is below safety stock level.
• Maintain inventory of cooler boxes and ice packs for shipment and communicate when more are needed
• Print labels for product samples and cooler boxes
• Fulfill the sample shipment requests that are provided by management

Reporting & Documentation

• Document product data (dimensions, weights, etc.) as defined by Food Scientists or specifications
• Document all inventory transactions throughout the shift (raw materials, packaging, finished goods)

Food & Workplace Safety

• Ensure all production is completed in accordance with company GMPs, HACCP requirements, USDA regulations, and internal quality standards.
• Promote food safety by enforcing compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Hygiene Practices for all products handled.
• Maintain the R&D Kitchen in an organized manner.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to follow detailed product specifications, standard operating procedures, and documentation requirements.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to verify packaging, labels, codes, weights, and quality test records.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Production, QA, R&D, Supervisors, and technical partners.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to respond quickly to operational deviations and shift obstacles.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Spend approximately 30-80% of time in the manufacturing plant in cold temperatures (40-50°F).
• Ability to stand for long periods (30-80%) of time
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of computers, specifically Microsoft Office products.
• Technical training or coursework in food science, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.
• Working knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, USDA regulations, food safety practices, and quality systems.
• Experience in food manufacturing, production support, R&D operations, or a related plant environment.
• Bilingual, English/Spanish preferred.
• Strong communication skills.

Compensation

$50,000 - $60,000

Amylu Foods is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran, or disability status.