R&D Specialist

Tulkoff Food Products; Toronto; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Tulkoff Canada R&D ULC in Etobicoke, ON is seeking an experienced R&D Specialist to support product development, formulation testing, and quality activities within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. You will prepare sauce samples, conduct basic lab tests (pH, Brix, viscosity), maintain records, and collaborate with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations teams to meet project timelines.

The role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work both independently and in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and relevant laboratory experience preferred.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in an R&D laboratory, food manufacturing, or related environment.
• Basic understanding of food safety principles (HACCP, GMPs).
• Hands-on experience with basic food laboratory testing equipment and data recording.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and organize sauce and food product samples for internal testing, evaluations, and development activities.
• Follow established formulations, procedures, and test methods accurately.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis (pH, Brix, viscosity, water activity, salt, etc.).
• Support shelf-life studies, stability testing, and sensory evaluations with data collection and documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of formulations, test results, samples, and activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized R&D lab and proper labeling, storage, and handling of ingredients.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organization & time management

Written & verbal communication

Independent & collaborative work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in food science, nutrition, food technology, or related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Job Details: Level: Experienced, Job Location: Tulkoff Canada R&D ULC - Etobicoke, ON M9W 6P3, Position Type: Full Time, Education Level: 4 Year Degree, Job Shift: Day, Position Summary:

The R&D Specialist plays an important role in supporting product development, innovation, and quality within the R&D team. This position is responsible for preparing and evaluating sauce formulations and customer samples, conducting laboratory testing, maintaining an organized and well-controlled R&D environment, and supporting documentation and regulatory activities as needed.

The R&D Specialist works closely with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations teams to ensure samples and testing are completed accurately and on time. This role requires strong attention to detail, good organization, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and organize sauce and food product samples for internal testing, customer evaluations, and product development activities.
• Follow established formulations, procedures, and test methods accurately and consistently.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis of R&D samples, including pH, Brix, viscosity, water activity, salt, and other applicable measurements.
• Support shelf-life studies, stability testing, and sensory evaluations, including sample preparation, testing, data collection, and documentation.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and organized records of formulations, test results, samples, and other R&D activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe R&D laboratory, including proper labeling, storage, inventory, and handling of ingredients and samples.
• Ensure ingredients, samples, and finished products are properly identified, dated, and stored under the appropriate conditions.
• Support preparation and shipment of customer samples, ensuring samples are prepared accurately, packaged appropriately, and delivered on schedule.
• Work closely with R&D team members to support product development trials, reformulations, and process improvement activities.
• Support plant trials and production activities when required, including sample collection, testing, and documentation.
• Communicate test results, observations, and potential issues clearly and promptly to the appropriate team members.
• Follow all company policies and procedures related to food safety, workplace safety, quality, sanitation, and confidentiality.
• Maintain and operate laboratory equipment properly and report equipment issues or maintenance needs.
• Assist with other R&D projects and activities as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, Nutrition, Food Technology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in an R&D laboratory, food manufacturing, or related food industry environment.
• Basic understanding of food safety principles, HACCP, GMPs, and applicable food safety programs.
• Hands-on experience with basic food laboratory testing and laboratory equipment is an asset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in testing and documentation.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations teams.
• Ability to follow established procedures while recognizing and communicating deviations or potential issues.
• Comfortable working in a hands‑on laboratory and food manufacturing environment.
• Flexible and willing to adapt to changing priorities, schedules, and departmental needs.