R&D Technician: Food Science & Extrusion Pilot Ops

Glanbia Nutritionals, Inc.; Illinois; On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts

Health & dental plan

401(k) with company match

Generous family leave policy

Job summary

Glanbia Nutritionals, Inc. is seeking an R&D Technologist to support healthy snacking product development. You will assist with laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with food safety standards.

The role involves collaboration with the R&D team and hands-on participation in production activities. You will help develop extrusion-based processes, source ingredients, and prepare technical reports while upholding safety and quality protocols.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher preferred in a related field with minimum high school diploma
• 1–3 years in a food manufacturing or lab setting, extrusion experience preferred
• Basic understanding of food safety regulations and lab procedures
• Able to follow instructions and work with a team
• Basic knowledge of food ingredient functionality and processing
• Willing to travel up to 25% for business objectives

Responsibilities

• Assist Food Scientists in product development trials and experiments.
• Learn to operate pilot plant equipment and support maintenance, setup, and sanitation with staff.
• Prepare samples and ingredients for testing and sensory evaluation.
• Accurately record and organize data from lab tests and production trials.
• Support food safety and quality protocols (HACCP, GMP).
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure cleanliness and calibration.
• Troubleshoot production issues under senior guidance.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to source ingredients.
• Compile technical reports, specifications, and regulatory docs.
• Contribute to hands-on roles in small-scale production as needed.
• Develop knowledge of extrusion processing and analytical equipment.
• Maintain project documents to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.

Skills

Communication

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Lab troubleshooting

Analytical thinking

Travel flexibility

Adaptability

Education

Degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Engineering, Biology or related field

Tools

Genesis R&D software

MS Office

Job description

Glanbia Nutritionals, Inc. is seeking an R&D Technologist to support healthy snacking product development. You will assist with laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with food safety standards.

The role involves collaboration with the R&D team and hands-on participation in production activities. You will help develop extrusion-based processes, source ingredients, and prepare technical reports while upholding safety and quality protocols.