Research Development Laboratory Technologist

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION:

Prepares bench top and pilot lab flavor/food/beverage prototypes to showcase Universal Ingredients' portfolio & technologies under supervision as required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Compounds flavor formulas for active project work as instructed by the flavorist.
• Prepares application samples for ongoing development projects, including scaling, heat treatment, and packaging.
• Utilizes basic mathematical procedures to calculate flavor adjustment percentages and create chemical solutions.
• Adjust flavor formulas as instructed by the flavorist and records changes in Excel formulas.
• Doses finished flavors at tasting strength and prepares flavor and application tastings for flavorist and team.
• Completes chemical analyses of flavor and application products for commercialization.
• Maintains raw material inventory through warehouse sampling and proper labeling.
• Contacts raw material suppliers for samples of ingredients not maintained in warehouse inventory.
• Fulfills open sample requests in a timely manner by preparing samples, providing copies of necessary documentation, and coordinating shipping.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and space in a clean, orderly, and safe manner daily.
• Follows appropriate safety, laboratory, and GMP procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL/SKILLS NEEDED:

• Must have a positive attitude, be self-motivated, detail-oriented and organized.
• Must work well in a team environment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to constant change in a positive manner.
• Ability to understand instructions and execute in an efficient and effective manner.
• Capable of handling multiple projects in a limited time frame.
• Familiar with food industry practices and procedures, and basic knowledge of GMP's and HACCP.
• Ability to read and interpret various formula sheets.
• Ability to use basic lab equipment such as scales, pipettes, pH meters, blenders, mixers, and hot plates/stirrers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and able to learn new software systems quickly.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination.
• English comprehension including speaking, reading, and writing is required for our business's necessity
  to ensure
  a safe and effective work environment.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma required.
• Associate degree in the Sciences preferred.
• 1-2 years of experience working in a laboratory setting preferred.
• ERP Experience preferred.
• Experience in a food manufacturing company preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires standing for an entire shift.
• Requires frequent lifting and/or carrying objects weighing up to ten (10) pounds.
• Requires pushing, pulling, bending, twisting, squatting, and lifting close to the body.
• Require frequent repetitive motion.
• Ability to work in a consistent area for an entire shift.
• Must be able to work in various indoor temperatures including elevated heat and humidity.
• Exposure to elevated noise levels which occur below OSHA thresholds.
• Infrequent exposure to machine sanitation solutions and detergents.
• Requires frequent visual quality control observations which may include turning and bending of the neck and head area.
• Exposure to various odors throughout a work shift.
• Required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Required to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
• Exposure to food allergens such as, but not limited to, milk, eggs, tree nuts, wheat, and soybeans will occur.

Conduct, Quality, Integrity, and Culture

Conduct:
We will conduct every aspect of our business with honesty, integrity, and openness, respecting human rights and the interests of our employees, customers, and third parties
.

Quality:
Shank's is committed to food safety and product quality. We employ extensive food safety programs and controls at all levels. Our quality standards and food safety procedures are thoroughly being evaluated internally and externally. We continuously strive to improve our performance.

Integrity:
Shank's and its employees will not offer, give, seek or receive, either directly or indirectly, improper inducements for business or financial gain. Where information is confidential, that confidentiality must be protected.

Culture:
Shank's respects the cultural values of our employees, contractors, and customers. We also promote a balanced work-life environment. We recognizeand celebrate our employees for their hard work and the contributions they make to our company.

Shanks Core Values:

ASPIRATION:
Share a vision for achievement

ACCOUNTABILITY:
Support company reputation

ADAPTABILITY:
Evolve to meet business needs