R&D Technologist I

Job purpose

            Making and testing new product samples for IPM/IPMPC customers.

Duties and responsibilities

Level 1

• Understand R&D process from concept to commercialization
• Assist in the development of new products from concept to commercialization within cost and nutritional guidelines
• Improve current products with regard to both cost and quality
• Keep up-to-date knowledge on food trends and competitor analysis
• Set-up, Supervise & Support production trial runs & new product launches at various factory locations, at times assisting QA and production in troubleshooting issues
• Communicate with vendors and suppliers as needed, especially sourcing new ingredients, specifications, pricing and building relationships
• Be able to prepare samples in the Lab. Decide what ingredients and level are required to create finished products that meet a customer’s need. Understand impact of different ingredients on finished product
• Organize and order ingredients needed to prepare customer samples.
• Duplicate formulas and make changes to existing formulas to meet target flavor profile. Accurately document formulas, specifications, and operating procedures.
• Think critically about effects of formula changes on production ability.
• Prioritize development activities throughout the project.

Level 2

• Have an area of specific detailed knowledge (equipment, type of product, etc)
• Aid other team members using specific detailed knowledge.
• Train operators of any specialized equipment / software related to area of expertise.
• Write official operating instructions, equipment diagrams, or other SOP needed to run equipment.
• Work with QA team to write HACCAP plan for any new procedure / equipment.
• Work with project manager and equipment buyer on recommendations for purchase.
• Attend trainings and trade shows that relate to area of expertise
• Occasionally visit customers as needed by customer service / sales.
• Communicate with customers about specific technology or resource.
• Communicate with support team from any equipment, technology, software product company that relates to area of expertise.

Level 3

• Supervise a team of R&D Technicians
• Schedule team as needed for trials, product launches, or lab work
• Manage customer’s projects from concept to commercialization