Research and Development Technician

Bay State Milling Job Description

Job Title: R&D Technician

Department: Research and Development

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (hourly, overtime eligible)

Work Location: Quincy, MA (on-site 5 days per week)

Pay Range: $55,000 - $70,000 per year, dependent on experience

SUMMARY  

This R&D Technician supports technical activities associated with the research and development of new plant-based ingredients and applications at Bay State Milling and aligns with BSMC’s Strategic Intent of being the leading supplier of plant-based ingredients for the next generation of foods in North America.  This role will align directly with the initiatives of our Business Units (Milling & Ingredient Solutions, Oat Milling, Varietal Solutions).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

• Conduct testing on grains, flours, food ingredients, and finished foods to aid research and development of new ingredients. This may include research on new grain cultivars, or research that may help us understand our ingredients better.   Common analyses include testing % moisture, protein, ash, viscosity, dough rheology, water absorption, texture analysis, and starch pasting.
• Provide support on R&D projects which may include formula scaleup, ingredient sourcing, and maintaining ingredient databases.
• Be a trained member of our Sensory Team.
• Bake lab flour and ingredient inventory management.
• Data management and report-outs.
• Collaborate with other R&D members.
• Maintain a safe workspace and abide by the Innovation Center lab manual to help us all maintain a state of the art innovation center, team, and culture.

QUALIFICATIONS to perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE  

• B.S degree in food science or related science from an accredited university
• Experience in a lab setting running routine analyses for accuracy and precision.

 OTHER SKILLS & ABILITIES 

• Ability to touch and taste grains, flours, and grain-based foods.
• Ability to accurately input data via computer screens and programs
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs
• Comfort with using mechanical equipment (mills, mixers, ovens, etc), handling chemicals, and using various analytical instruments (training will be provided)
• Ability to understand and follow through with detailed spoken and/or written instructions.
• Ability to communicate information both verbally and in writing in a clear and concise manner

PHYSICAL DEMANDS the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing this job, this employee is required to be on her/his feet during part or all of the day.  This employee must be able to run analytical equipment in a safe manner.  Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds occasionally. Should not be allergic to wheat, soy and/or associated dusts.

WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Usually will work in analytical laboratory & food product development lab.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Must speak fluent English as the primary language. Must have the ability to read, analyze, and interpret memos, general business communications, technical procedures, and governmental regulations and/or labels.  Must have the ability to write in English and complete reports.

 MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Must possess the ability to work with mathematical concepts and apply concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to analytical situations. 

REASONING ABILITY

Must possess the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.  Must have the ability to interpret technical instruction in mathematical or diagram form and deal with multiple tests operating at any given time.

SAFETY

While performing the essential job functions, the employee is expected to work in a safe manner and to follow company policies regarding safety.  It is the expectation and responsibility of the employee to report any and all injuries immediately to the Vice President of Corporate Quality Assurance and to resolve any safety situation that is substandard and poses a risk for employee injury, property damage or loss.

FOOD SAFETY/SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

The Company is committed to producing and delivering defect-free products. To ensure this, all employees are required to be trained on and adhere to the Good Manufacturing Policies set forth by the Company as they pertain to personnel practices, equipment, and facilities. It is also vital that all employees be aware of their work environment and prevent any accidental or intentional adulteration of products produced at this facility.

Salary : $55,000 - $70,000