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Job Title: R&D Technician

Job Description

We are seeking a Food R&D Technician in Chicago, IL, to join our dynamic team. This role involves working closely with scientists to weigh, blend, and process samples according to standard operating procedures (SOPs) for spice blends and thermally processed sauces. You will translate lab findings into accurate finished product specifications and manage laboratory raw material inventory.

Responsibilities

+ Accurately weigh-up formulas provided by scientists and blend/process samples according to SOPs.

+ Translate lab findings into clear finished product specifications through appropriate analyses, including chemical, physical, and sensory evaluations.

+ Contact raw material suppliers to request samples as needed.

+ Organize, schedule, and discuss prototype evaluations with team members and summarize evaluation comments.

+ Collaborate with the Innovation team to plan and coordinate trials with plant and production teams.

+ Maintain laboratory raw material inventory and sample storage by developing an inventory tracking system.

+ Ensure cleanliness and organization of labs.

+ Develop and manage a 'product library' to provide the Sales team with a clear understanding of the current portfolio.

Essential Skills

+ BS in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field.

+ 1-2 years of experience with bulk index, bulk density, and pH meters.

+ Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

+ Experience with GMP and data entry.

+ Knowledge of wet chemistry.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

+ Personable, professional, and adaptable to change.

Work Environment

The role supports food scientists/product developers in the sauce and spice labs. The work hours are 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, with a 45-minute lunch break. The company has grown significantly in recent years, offering a collaborative, agile, and flexible environment that is perfect for those eager to learn and gain diverse experience.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Chicago,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 1, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.