R&D Lab Assistant

Newly Weds Foods; Broadview, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 29,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Newly Weds Foods in Broadview, IL is seeking an R&D Lab Assistant to support scientists and chefs with sample prep, testing, inventory control, shipping, and lab operations. You will help maintain records, ensure GMP and safety compliance, and assist with product development projects.

Strong organization, attention to detail, and teamwork are essential for success in this role. Ideal candidates will have basic lab practices knowledge and proficiency with MS Office and SharePoint; physical

Qualifications

• 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.

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.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Lab practices knowledge

Microsoft Office

SharePoint

Email systems

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Training others

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

SharePoint

Email systems

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.