Research and Innovation Laboratory Technician at Nature's Touch in front royal, Virginia

Job Description:

Who We Are:


Based out of Montreal, Canada, Nature's Touch is one of the largest suppliers of frozen fruit to retailers in North America, Australia, Taiwan, and Japan. We provide a full range of products and support multiple private label programs in addition to our own brands. We are also one of the largest buyers of fruit globally each year and continue to enjoy strong growth in this emerging category in retail.



The Role:


We are looking for a hands-on individual to support our R&D and Innovation teams. This person must be hyper-vigilant to the competitive landscape of frozen fruits and food innovations. Managing a benchmark platform and performing sensory analyses are critical skills for this role. Similarly, understanding product strategy and being cost-efficient are necessities. This role will report directly to Sr Innovation Product Developer.



Key Responsibilities:



Market Intelligence

• Conduct detailed benchmarks of frozen fruits, including sensory evaluation, physicochemical analysis, and quality assessment.
• Maintain benchmark databases for both Core and Innovation products.
• Track and collect market information (promos, launches, packaging information, etc.).
• Execute tasting panels and organize resulting data in a presentable manner.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions to discuss possible innovations and provide product recommendations.
• Monitor food industry trends, new technologies, and best practices.

• Conduct quality assessments on frozen fruits by comparing them to the industry's standards.
• Manage multiple project sample requests and first production sample requests.
• Conduct sensory evaluations and report key attributes (taste, texture, color, aroma).
• Monitor expenses and maintain the allowed budget.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment by ensuring equipment is calibrated and functioning correctly.
• Manage laboratory supplies and perform routine maintenance.
• Follow safety protocols and guidelines while conducting laboratory activities and ensure all tests comply with regulatory requirements.
• Maintain and organize raw materials and samples inventory.

• Conduct production trials and oversee first productions.
• Support fresh-to-frozen manufacturing processes.
• Coordinate and support plant managers and production teams.
• Provide recommendations for process improvement and help with troubleshooting.

• 1-3 years' experience in QA or R&D.
• Prior food manufacturing and laboratory setting experience.
• Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology or related fields.
• Knowledge of GMP standards and food safety regulations.
• Experienced with Smartsheet and Microsoft Office.

• Food enthusiast and taste explorer (ability to taste all fruits).
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work autonomously.
• Able to communicate organoleptic qualities unambiguously.
• Skilled at working in team environments.
• Strong time management skills.
• Able and willing to commute to stores and purchase frozen fruit products.
• Comfortable working in cold environments and handling dry ice; able to lift to 20 lbs.
• Willingness to travel to Canada, Mexico, and various USA regions.