R&D Specialist

Socket.dev; Toronto; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking an experienced R&D Specialist to join our Etobicoke, ON team. You will support product development, prepare and evaluate sauce formulations, and conduct laboratory tests in a fast-paced食品 manufacturing environment.

You will work closely with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations to ensure samples and testing are completed accurately and on time, maintaining organized documentation and safe laboratory practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and 1 year of R&D/lab experience.
• Fundamental knowledge of HACCP, GMPs and food safety programs.
• Hands-on laboratory testing and equipment experience is a plus.
• Proficiency with Excel and Word for data recording and reporting.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and organize sauce samples for internal testing and development activities.
• Follow established formulations, procedures, and test methods precisely.
• Conduct laboratory testing: pH, Brix, viscosity, water activity, salt, etc.
• Support shelf-life studies, stability testing, and sensory evaluations.
• Maintain accurate records of formulations, results, samples, and tests.
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and handling of ingredients and samples.
• Assist with shipment of customer samples and timely delivery.
• Collaborate with R&D, Regulatory, Quality and Operations teams on trials.
• Support plant trials and production activities when needed.
• Communicate results and potential issues clearly to team members.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organization

Time management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in food science, Nutrition, Food Technology, or a related discipline

Tools

Excel

Word

Job description

Job Details: Level: Experienced, Job Location: Tulkoff Canada R&D ULC - Etobicoke, ON, Position Type: Full Time, Education Level: 4 Year Degree, Salary Range: Undisclosed, 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.