POSITION OVERVIEW:

The primary role of the Research & Development Technician is to assist in the development and creation of new/improved products by completing all testing involved in the development and implementation of new products and product improvements This position will also be actively involved in the creation and development for all new/improved products and executes scale-up trials. The Research & Development Technician is a member of the research and development team and provides support to other roles within the department as required.

• VALUES:    Integrity, Care & Expertise (ICE)
• PURPOSE:  Improving Lives – By unlocking the Nutritional Value of Milk

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

• Active involvement in the development of new products based on new product development forms and processes.
• Coordination and execution of scale-up trials.
• Validates and verifies scale-up runs for new products.
• Generate nutritional information through the food processor software.
• Analyze, identify, recommend, and implement solutions for improving existing products.
• Perform application and functionality tests for new/existing products.
• Perform analytical tests for new/existing products.
• Develop new testing methods for testing the functionality of new products.
• Develop new applications for new products.
• Provide ongoing research and technical support to operations (production, QA, QC, and purchasing).

  COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills, Ability)

• Strong scientific knowledge & technical aspects of product research related to food, microbiology and chemistry and biotechnology.
• Thorough understanding of product development techniques including research and testing for existing and/or potential product applications.
• Problem solver with solid analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot as the need arises. Ability to define problems, collect and analyze data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Has the ability to think creatively and proactively propose solutions with attention to detail.
• Working knowledge of scientific writing, reports, and technical product presentations.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Maintain and enhance personal, professional, and technical expertise to meet business needs, department expectations, and ensure compliance to corporate, industry, and regulatory standards.
• Focus on quality including the development and adherence to standard operating procedures that create department efficiencies.
• Ability to create relationships, and effectively communicate internally and externally at all levels within the organization.
• The ability to take initiative, work proactively and respond to critical business problems with a high sense of urgency.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Relevant Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry or Biotechnology.
• Minimum three (3) years relevant work experience, including laboratory experience, within a food-related company.
• Technical skills, including formulation, and research and testing abilities related to key responsibility areas.
• Capability to work in a team environment with cross-functional departments and diverse personalities.
• Flexibility of work schedule due to job requirements.
• Working proficiency with MS Office applications, graphing, database programs, and internet applications.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and work under pressure.
• Detail-oriented with excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.