Research & Development Assistant – Commercial Bakery - Berwyn, IL

bbga; Berwyn (IL); On-site; USD 28,413 - 40,467; Full time

Job summary

A leading baking company in Berwyn is searching for an R&D Assistant to support product development activities. You will assist with product sample preparation, maintain technical documentation, and coordinate communication between R&D and other departments. Ideal candidates are detail-oriented and have a strong interest in the baking industry. This position provides hands-on exposure to commercial product development.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or relevant experience preferred.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills are essential.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparation and organization of product samples.
• Document results during product development trials.
• Track R&D projects and assist in managing timelines.
• Package and coordinate shipment of product samples.
• Maintain organized records of formulas and product specifications.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Documentation skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Interest in food manufacturing

Education

Associate’s degree or relevant experience

Job description

Research & Development Assistant – Commercial Bakery - Berwyn, IL

From $25 an hour - Full-time

Turano Baking Company is a family owned and operated specialty baking company that produces a complete variety of European and commercial breads and rolls delivered daily to customers throughout the United States. Turano continues to grow rapidly through a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, making Turano one of the most dynamic bakers in the national foodservice and retail markets. Our dedication to tradition, quality, and reliability continue as the next generation of the Turano family eagerly contributes to the company and our family of employees' success.

Position Summary

The R&D Assistant supports the Director of Research & Development in coordinating product development activities, maintaining technical documentation, and assisting with product trials and sample preparation.

This role plays a key part in keeping R&D projects organized and moving forward by managing development records, preparing product samples, coordinating testing logistics, and supporting communication between R&D, Operations, Quality, and Sales.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and interested in the baking industry. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on exposure to commercial product development in the baking industry!

Key Responsibilities

Product Development Support

• Assist with preparation and organization of product samples for internal testing, customer presentations, and sales initiatives
• Support pilot lab trials and plant testing activities as directed
• Document results, observations, and adjustments during product development trials
• Help coordinate product testing schedules with production and operations teams

Documentation & Data Management

• Maintain organized records of formulas, product specifications, and development notes
• Assist in preparing documentation for product commercialization
• Update and maintain ingredient and formula records as directed by the R&D Director
• Assist with collecting ingredient and nutritional information for internal or customer requests

Project Coordination

• Track R&D projects and assist the Director in managing development timelines
• Coordinate communication between R&D, Sales, Production, and Quality teams
• Help organize product ideation sessions and internal product reviews
• Assist with scheduling meetings, testing sessions, and sample preparation timelines

Sample & Product Logistics

• Package and coordinate shipment of product samples to customers, brokers, or internal teams
• Track sample requests and follow‑up actions
• Maintain organization of test kitchen and sample storage areas

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or relevant experience preferred (Food Science, Culinary, or related field a plus)
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally
• Interest in food manufacturing, baking, or product development preferred
• Combination of office, pilot lab, and manufacturing environment
• Must comply with all GMP, food safety, and sanitation policies
• Ability to lift up to 25–30 pounds occasionally

Why Join Turano?

Turano Baking Company is a family‑owned bakery with over 60 years of tradition producing high‑quality breads and rolls for foodservice, retail, and national customers. Our R&D team plays a central role in developing innovative products and supporting the company’s continued growth.