Position Summary
The R&D Sample Technician supports the Research and Development team in the small-scale production of new pet chews and supplement products. This role is responsible for conducting small-scale trials to evaluate ingredient compatibility, stability, and performance, ensuring all formulations meet quality, regulatory, and product performance standards before scaling to full production. The technician will work closely with formulation, production, and quality teams to bring innovative, effective, and compliant products to market.
Key Responsibilities
R&D Support
- Prepare and execute small-scale batch trials for new product formulations, including soft chews and powders.
- Accurately weigh, measure, and mix ingredients following formulation sheets and R&D procedures.
- Record all batch information, observations, and results with precision and detail.
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain accurate and complete R&D batch records in compliance with cGMP, FDA, and internal quality standards.
- Ensure all R&D activities are conducted in a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with the R&D, Production and Quality Assurance teams during scale-up and pilot production runs to ensure product consistency and manufacturability.
- Request and coordinate the retrieval of ingredients from the warehouse to support small-scale batch trials and maintain safety stocks.
- Provide feedback on ingredient performance and process adjustments based on lab-scale findings.
Qualifications
Education & Experience:
- High School Diploma or GED
- 1–3 years of experience in food, nutraceutical, or pet supplement manufacturing preferred.
- Experience with cGMP or FDA-regulated environments strongly preferred.
Skills & Abilities:
- Ability to perform accurate weighing, measuring, and mixing operations.
- Familiarity with basic laboratory instruments (balances, hot plates, stand mixers, etc.).
- Excellent organizational and documentation skills with strong attention to detail.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook), project management software (preferred) and ERP systems.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a cross-functional team.
- Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and handle up to 50 lbs.
- Standing, bending, and mixing for extended periods.
- Working in a pilot plant environment with exposure to various ingredients (including food allergens) and equipment.
Work Environment
This position operates primarily in a pilot production setting. The technician must follow safety, hygiene, and cGMP standards at all times.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
Work Location: In person