Lab Technician (R&D)

Plexus-Worldwide; Scottsdale (AZ); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Plexus-Worldwide is seeking an R&D-focused professional to support formulation development, bench-scale experiments, and sensory testing in a fast-paced environment.

You will manage lab materials, maintain documentation, and collaborate across teams to drive innovation and cost-saving initiatives while ensuring compliance and data integrity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in related field.
• Preferred: Food Science, Nutrition, or related field.
• Minimum: 1 year in dietary supplement or food science department.
• Preferred: 2 years in dietary supplement or food science department.
• No specific certification/license required.

Responsibilities

• Conducts bench-top experiments and maintains lab notebooks and documentation.
• Performs sensory evaluations for ingredients and finished products.
• Maintains lab materials inventory, storage, and replenishment.
• Ensures lab cleanliness and regulatory compliance.
• Manages NDAs with suppliers and contract researchers.
• Supports product presentations and cross-functional collaboration.
• Contributes to formulation initiatives including innovation and cost savings.

Skills

Sensory evaluation

Attention to detail

Lab notebook management

NDA management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Food science/Nutrition degree

Job description

Supports new product formulation and development by conducting bench-scale experiments, preparing and documenting product samples, managing R&D lab materials, and coordinating product testing activities to ensure timely and accurate evaluation of new and modified products.

Position Accountabilities

• Conducts bench-top experiments, manages lab notebook(s), maintain standard/control storage, develop specifications, and collects other required documentation in the formulation developmental process.
• Develops competency in basic sensory sciences and performs product sensory evaluations (flavor, texture, appearance, performance, preference/liking) for ingredients and finished products for internal partners. Batch, package, and label samples for UAT and IHUT purposes. Coordinates internal events for taste testing and data collection.
• Tracks and maintains product stability data, ensuring accurate documentation of parameters and pass/fail outcomes.
• Maintains accurate inventory levels of raw materials and finished goods within the R&D lab, including tracking usage, shelf life, and replenishment needs.
• Maintains laboratory cleanliness, organization, and compliance to support safe and efficient operations.
• Responsible for managing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with raw material suppliers, contract manufacturers, and contracted research organizations, ensuring proper documentation, compliance, and organization of confidential information, including samples.
• Assists with product presentations to internal and external audiences.
• Works independently as well as with teams to deliver results on time.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to identify and execute formulation initiatives including innovation, renovation, and cost savings.
• Responsible for sensitive data storage, management, and organization to the desire that aligns with existing standards.
• Ability to work off-hours with occasional evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees in this position.

Position Qualifications

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent related years of experience.

Preferred Education: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Nutrition, or related field.

Minimum Experience: 1 year working in a dietary supplement or food science department.

Preferred Experience: 2 years working in a dietary supplement or food science department.

Required Certification/ License: N/A

Preferred Certification/ License: N/A

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

• Able to conduct sensory evaluations requiring the ability to taste, smell and visually discern most food products and ingredients.
• Maintains a positive and professional attitude with a high attention to detail and organization.