R&D Technician

Synergy Flavors, Inc; Wauconda (IL); On-site; USD 27,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Synergy Flavors, Inc. is seeking an R&D Technician to support product development and sensory testing by preparing, labeling, and organizing samples, batching formulas, and performing basic analytical tests.

This hands-on role collaborates with scientists, technologists, and flavorists to support Applications projects and new flavor creation. This entry-level to junior role is ideal for someone with lab or food production experience who enjoys hands-on work, learning techniques, and contributing

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–3 years of experience in a lab, food manufacturing, or product testing environment preferred.
• Basic analytical and measurement skills; familiarity with lab equipment (balances, pH meters, refractometers).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures.
• Good organizational skills and teamwork orientation.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications (Excel, data entry).

Responsibilities

• Prepare, weigh, mix, and label product prototypes following established formulas and procedures.
• Perform basic analytical testing (e.g., pH, Brix, TA) under supervision.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab and sensory area, including supplies and sample inventory.
• Will accurately document work, sample details, and results according to R&D standards.
• Follow safety, quality, and good laboratory practices (GLP), always.
• Collaborate with R&D, QA, and other departments to support testing and product evaluations.
• Provide flexible support to Applications based on project priorities.

Skills

Lab experience

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Organization

Excel

Data entry

Teamwork

PPE safety

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Balances

pH meters

Refractometers

Job description

Company Overview

Synergy Flavors, part of the Carbery Group, is more than just a leading international supplier of ingredients to the global food and beverage industry—we’re a team driven by purpose. Our vision is simple yet powerful: enriching lives through healthier and tastier foods. We believe great flavor starts with great people. That’s why we’re committed to hiring creative, passionate individuals who want to make a real impact. With deep expertise across food, beverage, and nutrition, our teams develop high-quality taste solutions that inspire innovation and elevate everyday experiences.

Your Role in Synergy's Success

The R&D Technician supports product development and sensory testing by preparing, labeling, and organizing samples, batching formulas, and performing basic analytical tests. This hands‑on role works closely with scientists, technologists, and flavorists to support both Applications projects as needed. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with some lab or food production experience who enjoys hands‑on work, learning new techniques, and contributing to the creation of new flavors and products.

How You Will Contribute

• Prepare, weigh, mix, and label product prototypes following established formulas and procedures.
• Perform basic analytical testing (e.g., pH, Brix, TA) under supervision.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab and sensory area, including supplies and sample inventory.
• Will accurately document work, sample details, and results according to R&D standards.
• Follow safety, quality, and good laboratory practices (GLP), always.
• Collaborate with R&D, QA, and other departments to support testing and product evaluations.
• Provide flexible support to Applications based on project priorities.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–3 years of experience in a lab, food manufacturing, or product testing environment preferred.
• Basic analytical and measurement skills; familiarity with lab equipment (balances, pH meters, refractometers).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures.
• Good organizational skills and teamwork orientation.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications (Excel, data entry).

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Dependable, accurate, and organized.
• Enjoy hands‑on, detail‑oriented work.
• Is curious and eager to learn new lab techniques and processes.
• Collaborative and adaptable when priorities change.
• Take pride in quality, safety, and doing work the right way.
• Work is performed primarily in a lab setting and will require standing for extended periods.
• Following PPE safety guidelines.
• Some light lifting (up to 25 lbs.) and frequent movement between lab and sensory areas are required.

Pay Range: $19.65/HR - $29.48/HR (Based on experience) Monday - Friday w/ flexible start/end time hours within 6am - 5pm. The actual compensation that you will be offered will depend on a variety of factors including geography, skills and abilities, education, experience and other relevant factors. This role will remain open until filled. For more information on our benefits click here.

Our Commitment to our People

We are a diverse and growing workforce of over 1,000 people across eight countries globally. As we continue to grow, we want to ensure that Carbery Group continues to be a place where people are supported to develop and feel that they can do their best work. We are committed to driving growth, developing future capability and delivering results through our dedicated teams. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and an inclusive workplace where your skills, perspectives, and experience help shape the future of our industry. Join us and be part of a team that values collaboration and makes a meaningful impact - from local communities to global markets. Carbery Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a supportive work environment. Across our global organisation, we employ 1000 people in 8 countries – and we are growing. From production specialists to R&D experts, finance, quality, digital, marketing, sales and so much more, see what opportunities await you with Carbery and Synergy.

Our Work Experience is the combination of everything that's unique about us: our culture, our core values, our company meetings, our commitment to sustainability, our recognition programs, but most importantly, it's our people. Our employees are self-disciplined, hard working, curious, trustworthy, humble, and truthful. They make choices according to what is best for the team, they live for opportunities to collaborate and make a difference, and they make us the #1 Top Workplace in the area.