Position Summary

We are seeking a Research and Development Technician to join our R&D team. This role will play a key part in developing, testing, and refining new dietary supplement products. This position works closely with the R&D Manager, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Production teams to ensure all formulations meet customer specifications, internal specifications, cGMP, and FDA standards. Responsibilities span ideation, lab-scale trials, documentation, regulatory review, and support through production scale-up. This role is a great fit for candidates with a background in food science or a related field, including recent graduates with relevant internship or entry-level experience.

Key Responsibilities

Formulation & Product Development

Assist in developing new formulas (powders, capsules, tablets, flavor systems) using approved raw materials.

Evaluate nutrient safety levels to appropriately select ingredients and their dosages while formulating.

Conduct lab-scale experiments, physical/chemical testing (e.g., pH, moisture, bulk density), and stability assessments.

Assist in raw material sourcing, qualification, and approval.

Documentation & Compliance:

Create and maintain detailed lab records, batch sheets, specifications, and technical documentation.

Review raw ingredient documentation (COAs, MSDS) and ensure regulatory compliance (cGMP, FDA, DSHEA).

Prepare and manage sample documentation for internal review and customer presentations.

Collaboration & Scale-Up Support:

Work closely with all members of the R&D team on all projects. Teamwork and shared knowledge are key aspects of the R&D Department culture.

Work cross-functionally with Production during pilot runs and first manufacturing batches.

Troubleshoot formulation and processing issues alongside Quality and Operations teams.

Client and Supplier Interactions

Interact with clients as required, often to brainstorm product ideas or lead a sampling session.

Interact with suppliers as required, often to learn of new sourcing opportunities and to obtain pricing quotes and documentation.

Interactions may include in-person meetings, virtual meetings, conferences, and email.

Continuous Improvement:

Stay current with industry trends, scientific literature, and regulatory updates.

Recommend process improvements, new technologies, and ingredient innovations.

Lab Maintenance:

Maintain cleanliness, organization, maintenance, and calibration of lab equipment and shared lab spaces.

Help maintain appropriate inventory of laboratory ingredients, packaging materials, and other R&D resources.

Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or related field.
• Experience in dietary supplement/food product R&D (an internship or at least 1 year preferred).
• Working knowledge of cGMP and FDA regulations.
• Ability to collaborate with personnel within and outside the R&D Department.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs. and stand for extended periods of time.

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience in formulation, analytical testing, and product scale-up.
• Familiarity with flavor systems and ingredient functionality.
• Fluency in English and Spanish.
• Experience in regulatory documentation and compliance.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly and professionally with current and prospective clients.
• Proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, etc).
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-solving mindset with a willingness to learn and adapt.

Benefits Package:

• 401K with employer match.
• Full medical coverage for employees
• Dental and Vision coverage options.