Position Overview

Now Hiring: R&D SpecialistLocation: Lowell, MA

Pay Range: $23.50-$24/hr. *based on experience*

Schedule: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm *occasional weekends*

Benefits & Perks:

• 401(K)
• Dental Insurance. 
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Health, Life and Vision Insurance. 
• PTO
• Tuition Reimbursement

Who We Are:Plenus Group, Inc, is a food manufacturer with an extensive line of versatile soups, sauces and value-added specialty food items, our foodservice division offers restaurants and grocery stores many delicious ways to please their customers. 

We are looking for an R&D Specialist to support our organization. 

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Research & Development Specialist works with the R&D Chef, culinary team, and production staff to place new products into production and update existing products in production. Responsible for food handling in accordance with food safety protocols based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS*

• Prepare sample recipes as directed by R&D Chef.
• Prepare R&D shipments to customers.
• Manage and record daily production sample reviews and taste panel results.
• Assist in development of formulas and procedures under R&D Chef’s supervision.
• Maintain and manage sample inventory and record keeping on all development samples.
• Assist in requisitioning and recording usage of raw materials/ingredients as needed.
• Maintain a neat, sanitized and organized test kitchen.
• Assist with trade shows and customer presentation.

PREPARATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to identify food trends and be creative
• Basic understanding of food science and technical application
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Impeccable time management skills
• Ability to collaborate and communicate with all levels of the organization
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Work is performed while standing, sitting and/or walking.
• Requires the ability to communicate effectively using speech, vision and hearing.
• Requires the use of hands for simple grasping and fine manipulations.
• Requires bending, squatting, crawling, climbing, and reaching.
• Requires the ability to lift, carry, push or pull medium weights, up to 60 pounds.
• Requires activities involving being around moving machinery, exposure to marked changes in temperature and humidity, and exposure to dust, food allergens and gas.
• Must be able to work in the heat/steam and cold environment and do manual labor.
• Some travel may be required.

Pay Range