Senior R&D Technician (Food)

Position: Senior Research & Development Technician

Department: R&D

Reports to: Senior Director, Research & Development and Commercialization

Position Summary

The Senior Research & Development Technician plays a key role in the innovation process. Responsibilities include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They ensure the research team has the tools and resources necessary for successful projects. Drawing on their experience, they actively contribute to solving complex problems, optimizing methods, and writing and updating procedures. This hands-on role also makes a significant contribution to the success of innovative initiatives. The position requires strong technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, a high degree of independence, and initiative, supported by a genuine passion for discovery.

Key Responsibilities

Recipe Development

• Actively participate in the development, optimization, and validation of new recipes, and coordinate technical activities during testing.
• Establish quality control measures to ensure new products meet internal standards and regulatory requirements.

Ingredient Selection

• Work with the purchasing team to research, evaluate, and select ingredients based on their functionality, performance, and impact on product quality and shelf life.

Testing and Analysis

• Conduct tests and analyses to evaluate the physical and organoleptic properties of products.
• Organize and conduct sensory evaluations.
• Maintain thorough documentation of experiments, results, and formulations.
• Analyze collected data and prepare technical reports that include conclusions and recommendations.

Collaboration and Training

• Work closely with Production, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Procurement teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Mentor and train junior technicians and production staff on procedures, methods, and best practices.

Process Optimization

• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities related to formulations, processes, and performance, including scaling up from laboratory to industrial production.
• Identify, analyze, and resolve technical issues encountered during product development or production, including taste, texture, stability, and process performance.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with food safety, labeling, and applicable regulatory requirements, including CFIA and FDA regulations.

Experience and Education

• A college diploma (DEC) or bachelor's degree in food science or a related field.
• A minimum of five years of research and development experience in the food industry (to be adjusted based on the company's needs).
• Strong knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and food processing techniques.
• Hands-on experience in a food laboratory and production environment, including project management or product launch support.
• Proficiency with food processing equipment, quality control procedures, and food regulations, including CFIA and FDA requirements.
• Experience in process optimization and transferring products from laboratory scale to industrial production is a significant asset.

Skills and Competencies

• Rigor and precision in measurements and analyses.
• Excellent documentation management and maintenance of detailed technical records.
• Leadership in food safety and promotion of best practices in laboratory and production environments.
• Thorough understanding and consistent application of established protocols and standards.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize time, and meet deadlines.
• Teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Independence, initiative, and decision-making ability.
• A structured and methodical approach to work, emphasizing cleanliness, organization, and efficiency.
• Ability to mentor team members and transfer knowledge.

Additional Information

This job description provides a general overview of the position. It is not exhaustive and does not include every possible responsibility, task, or function. Responsibilities and requirements may be modified based on the company's needs.