R&D Lab Technician

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive R&D Lab Technician to support the Development team in fulfilling industrial customer briefs. This role involves compounding, preparing, recording, and dispatching sample products, as well as providing regular feedback on product performance. The ideal candidate will actively contribute to the R&D team's efforts to meet business goals and objectives while maintaining compliance with company, third-party, and customer standards.,

• Compounding seasoning samples, with potential involvement in cooking and working with meat and poultry ingredients as required. Application of seasonings onto relevant bases according to customer or developer specifications. Assisting in preparation of samples for research, shelf-life testing, and other required assessments.
• Preparing and dispatching product samples to global customers, ensuring compliance with specific customs requirements for each country. Utilizing existing systems to generate necessary documentation and coordinating with the International Trade Compliance team to ensure adherence to regulations.
• Managing and maintaining laboratory stock of raw materials, including experimental ingredients, ensuring appropriate inventory levels are maintained. Ensuring that raw material and product retains are stored in compliance with the Gold Standard Programme, with strict adherence to shelf-life requirements.
• Ensuring all activities are conducted in accordance with Company, Third Party, Customer requirements and in line with key performance indicators.
• Sampling and picking up of raw materials from the factory located on the same site.
• Setting up an internal tasting panel for flavour evaluation of raw materials and finished products including FTO trial samples. Maintaining tasting records.
• Attendance and participation at routine sensory panels, both R&D and Quality.
• Working on existing lab systems to maintain data and traceability of raw materials and finished products.
• Be cross-trained in various departmental duties to provide coverage for the R&D Lab team as needed, ensuring the timely completion of tasks and adherence to deadlines.
• Managing Third Party calibration of scales and equipment for R&D Lab in order to meet requirements of the QMS, Regulatory and Audit.
• Conducting internal audits (HACCP, quality systems, food safety, glass and health & safety).
• Supporting the preparation and execution of External Customer and Third Party Audit Programme.
• Maintaining a clean and safe laboratory environment in accordance with health & safety standards.
• Leading and/or actively participating in continuous improvement projects.
  
  Degree in Food Science/Nutrition/Consumer Science or further educated to HNC or equivalent in a science subject (preferably chemistry/biochemistry).
• Certifications - Food Safety Level 2, HACCP Level 2.
• Practical experience of Good Laboratory Practices.
• Experience in the manufacturing environment working within Laboratory or Food Industry.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Working knowledge of SAP would be advantageous.
• PC literate as a minimum.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret analytical and microbiological data.
• Willing and capable to learn new skills.
• Willing to work in a manufacturing environment.
• Effective Time Management Skills.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and to deal with constant changes.