R&D Lab & Sample Technician

EFCO Products is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated R&D Lab & Sample Technician to support product development, sample fulfillment, and laboratory activities from concept through commercialization. This role plays a key part in bringing new ideas to life by preparing samples, supporting product testing, coordinating customer sample requests, and maintaining accurate documentation in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare laboratory samples of new and existing products.

• Support product development activities, including ingredient testing, cost optimization, and alternative vendor validation.

• Assist with product ideation, packaging concepts, and customer-specific applications.

• Create recipes, photographs, product labels, preparation instructions, and trend information to support marketing and customer sample programs.

• Coordinate the complete sample fulfillment process, including preparation, packaging, labeling, documentation, shipping, tracking, and inventory management.

• Maintain accurate sample, inventory, traceability, and shipping records.

• Communicate with Sales, Customer Service, Quality Assurance, Production, and R&D to ensure timely and accurate sample deliveries.

• Generate shipping labels and coordinate shipments using carrier portals

• Support ERP system data entry, validation, troubleshooting, and user training activities.

• Interface with customers and vendors during on-site visits.

• Follow all food safety, quality, GMP, SQF, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree

  in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field.

• 1-3 years of experience in food manufacturing, food quality, laboratory operations, product development support, sample management, or a related technical environment.

• Working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety principles, and quality systems.

• Experience in an SQF-certified food manufacturing environment is a plus.

• Experience with ERP systems

• Knowledge of food labeling, ingredient functionality, product development processes, shipping requirements, and inventory control is beneficial.

What We're Looking For

• Strong organizational and project management skills.

• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Self-motivated, hands-on, and comfortable working independently.

• Ability to regularly lift and carry packages up to 50 pounds.

• Commitment to maintaining food safety, quality, and continuous improvement standards.

If you're passionate about food innovation and enjoy a role that combines product development, laboratory work, and customer sample coordination, we'd love to hear from you.

You should be proficient in:

• Excellent Communication Skills
• Basic Computer Skills