R&D Lab Assistant

Broadview, IL; Broadview (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Newly Weds Foods is seeking an R&D Lab Assistant in Broadview, IL to provide critical support to the R&D team. The role involves sample preparation, analytical testing, inventory control, shipping, and maintaining laboratory operations to ensure efficient product development and compliance with safety and quality standards.

You will help with calibration records, GMP adherence, and collaboration with scientists and chefs, while traveling to vendors and other locations as needed.

Qualifications

• Must have strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team within a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Familiarity with lab practices and basic equipment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare product samples for internal and external customers.
• Maintain inventory of raw materials, ingredients, and WIP.
• Pull, package, and ship raw materials and finished goods.
• Conduct analytical testing on products and samples.
• Verify laboratory scales and equipment calibration docs.
• Assist with packaging and shipment of samples and materials.
• Maintain accurate records (batch sheets, logs, inventory).
• Procure laboratory supplies and equipment for operations.
• Support day-to-day lab organization, cleanliness, sanitation.
• Provide backup support to R&D labs at other locations.
• Pick up and deliver materials to R&D department.
• Drive to vendors, production facilities, warehouses, retail locations.
• Assist Scientists and Chefs with product development.
• Perform additional duties and special projects.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Independent and collaborative work

Verbal and written communication

Interpersonal communication

Laboratory practices knowledge

Microsoft Office / SharePoint

Attention to detail

Training and mentoring

Tools

Microsoft Office

SharePoint

Job description

R&D Lab Assistant

Compensation: $21.27 - $31.91 per hour
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Position Summary

The R&D Lab Assistant provides critical support to the Research & Development team, including Scientists and Chefs, by assisting with sample preparation, analytical testing, inventory management, shipping activities, and laboratory operations. This role helps ensure efficient product development, accurate recordkeeping, and compliance with safety and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare product samples for internal and external customers.
• Maintain inventory of raw materials, ingredients, and work-in-progress materials used for sample preparation.
• Pull, package, and ship raw materials and finished goods as requested.
• Conduct analytical testing on products and samples as assigned.
• Verify laboratory scales and analytical equipment and maintain required calibration documentation.
• Assist with packaging and shipment of product samples and laboratory materials.
• Maintain accurate records including batch sheets, analytical data logs, shipment records, and inventory documentation.
• Procure laboratory supplies, ingredients, packaging materials, and other items necessary for laboratory operations.
• Support day-to-day laboratory organization, cleanliness, sanitation, and maintenance.
• Provide backup support to R&D laboratories at other Newly Weds Foods locations as needed.
• Pick up and deliver materials required by the R&D department, including ingredients, samples, supplies, equipment, and finished products.
• Drive to vendors, production facilities, warehouses, and retail locations as required.
• Assist Scientists and Chefs with product development projects and other departmental initiatives.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Safety, Quality, and Compliance Responsibilities

• Promote and maintain a safe and clean work environment.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, behaviors, accidents, incidents, and near misses.
• Complete required safety, quality, and training documentation accurately and timely.
• Participate in accident and incident investigations when necessary.
• Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), including sanitation, hygiene, attire, and waste disposal requirements.
• Support and execute the company's Food Safety Plan and quality initiatives to ensure safe, high-quality products.

Qualifications and Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to interact professionally with employees at all levels of the organization.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory practices and equipment preferred.
• Ability to utilize Microsoft Office applications, SharePoint, and email systems.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions with attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Ability to guide, train, and communicate effectively with others.

Physical Requirements

• Regular attendance and punctuality are required.
• Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Must be able to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 55 pounds.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position safely and effectively.

Additional Information

This position supports the Research & Development team, including Scientists and Chefs, in the development, testing, and evaluation of products.

Employees are not authorized to speak on behalf of the company or respond to media inquiries regarding the company, its products, customers, or business operations.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify job duties and responsibilities at any time, with or without notice.