R&D Technician II: Hands-On Food Product Innovator

Basic American Foods; Blackfoot (ID); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Basic American Foods in Blackfoot, ID is seeking an R&D Technician II to join our hands-on development team. You will conduct testing, operate lab and pilot-plant equipment, and analyze results to turn ideas into tangible products.

Working across our lab, kitchen, pilot plant, and production environments, you’ll document findings, support project managers, and help maintain safety and quality as we bring new packaging and processes to life.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or two-year college/technical school.
• 1–3 years of related experience and/or training.
• Strong critical-thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills (A3 methods).
• Basic mechanical aptitude with lab or industrial equipment experience.
• Ability to perform laboratory testing and document findings.
• Proficiency with Excel, Outlook, Teams, and Word; familiarity with Optiva, Red Jade, and IFS.
• Strong written and verbal communication; professional email etiquette.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills; able to work independently.
• Willingness to work flexible hours; travel up to 25%.
• Forklift certification preferred.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, up to 100 lbs occasionally.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute R&D testing for new and existing products and processes.
• Maintain accurate test documentation, including records and results.
• Operate and maintain pilot plant equipment and ensure safety and compliance.
• Support Project Managers with equipment, ingredients, materials, and vendors.
• Procure, organize, and manage ingredients and materials for R&D projects.
• Coordinate shelf-life studies and document tastings and results.
• Manage inventory and order necessary supplies and shipping materials.
• Perform laboratory testing to support development and quality objectives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and independently manage projects.
• Support food safety initiatives and maintain a safe, organized environment.

Skills

Critical thinking

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Excel proficiency

Outlook

Teams

Word

Lab equipment operation

Education

Associate's degree or equivalent

Tools

Optiva

Red Jade

IFS

Job description

Basic American Foods in Blackfoot, ID is seeking an R&D Technician II to join our hands-on development team. You will conduct testing, operate lab and pilot-plant equipment, and analyze results to turn ideas into tangible products.

Working across our lab, kitchen, pilot plant, and production environments, you’ll document findings, support project managers, and help maintain safety and quality as we bring new packaging and processes to life.