R&D Food Technician

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research and development firm in Austin is seeking a Research & Development Food Technician for a long-term contract role. This position involves collaborating with the Product Development & Sensory Team to lead the cooking and presentation of samples. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Food Science or related fields, along with experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential. This role offers a structured day schedule, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver against timelines.
• Excellent communication skills and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the cooking and presenting of samples for teams.
• Manage Test Kitchen organization and cleanliness.
• Oversee sample receiving and storage procedures.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, Nutrition, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Scales

Ovens

Job description

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Job Status: Contract (Long-term)

As a Research & Development Food Technician, you will play an integral role supporting our client’s Product Development & Sensory Team. You will work closely with the Kitchen Manager in maintaining all Test Kitchen functions that support the broader R&D and cross-functional team needs.

Key Responsibilities Product Development & Sensory Program

• Lead the cooking, preparing, and presenting of samples for Product Development and Sensory Teams
• Work with Product Developers to assist in product cuttings and First Production Evaluations (setup and breakdown)

Test Kitchen Operations & Maintenance

• Adhere to all Test Kitchen Policies and Procedures for the team
• Manage and maintain the organization and cleanliness of the Test Kitchen
• Assure accuracy and integrity of information by upholding client core values, quality and brand standards

Sample Management & Documentation

• Manage the receiving and storage of samples in the Test Kitchen, including unpacking boxes and logging samples into internal database
• Manage net weights and photography of all first production samples
• Manage verification of product preparation instructions

Equipment & Inventory Management

• Manage Test Kitchen equipment including scales, ovens, thermometers, and microwaves ensuring they are calibrated regularly
• Maintain an inventory of test kitchen supplies and assist in ordering replacements as needed

Process Improvement & Technical Support

• Aid in continuous improvement through interdepartmental communication and project monitoring
• Collect and route supporting technical information as necessary to support team administration
• Perform other miscellaneous product development and administrative duties as necessary

Requirements and Qualifications Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Quality Assurance, or a related field from an accredited university
• 1-2 years of experience working in the consumer-packaged goods industry
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously and deliver against rapid timelines
• Must be detail-oriented and extremely organized with the ability to anticipate team needs
• Excellent communication skills and ability to excel in team settings
• Computer proficiency and familiarity with Microsoft Office applications
• Good typing skills and accuracy

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in product development and/or quality assurance
• Understanding of and experience in general food/manufacturing processing and laboratory techniques
• A passion for food and strong culinary skills