Product Quality Lab Technician

Job Title:

Product Quality Lab Technician (Administrative Support II)
Job Description

• Manage first production retains, including proper storage, cataloging, and organization of samples.
• Lead the cooking, preparation, and presentation of samples for weekly end-of-shelf-life evaluations.
• Conduct independent product quality evaluations to assess sensory attributes, product performance, and consistency.
• Perform store walks to investigate potential product quality issues and gather real-world observations.
• Report evaluation results, investigation findings, and trend insights to internal stakeholders in a clear and timely manner.
• Maintain, clean, and organize the product quality lab, equipment, and retains library to ensure a safe and efficient workspace.
• Update and help improve lab policies, procedures, and documentation to reflect current practices and standards.
• Perform miscellaneous product quality and administrative duties as needed to support the Product Quality team.
• Analyze customer feedback, identify trends, and contribute to root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts.
• Collaborate closely with Product Quality and Product Development teams to support initiatives that enhance product performance and customer satisfaction.

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Quality Assurance, or a related field from an accredited university.
• 1-2 years of experience working in the consumer-packaged goods industry or a laboratory setting.
• Experience with food preparation, laboratory work, or consumer-packaged goods product handling.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously and deliver against rapid timelines.
• Strong attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to anticipate team needs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to excel in team settings.
• Computer proficiency and familiarity with Microsoft Office applications (such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Good typing skills with a high degree of accuracy.
• Experience in data analysis, particularly in root cause problem solving.
• Comfort working with lab equipment and following general laboratory techniques.
• Understanding of basic food safety principles and food handling best practices.

• Experience in product development and/or quality assurance.
• Understanding of and experience in general food or manufacturing processing and laboratory techniques.
• A passion for food and strong culinary skills, including cooking and food preparation.
• Experience working with consumer feedback and translating insights into actionable recommendations.
• Familiarity with Smartsheet or similar project and data management tools.
• Ability to conduct structured store walks and translate observations into quality insights.
• Strong analytical mindset with an interest in root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
• Comfort working in a customer-facing environment when needed, including presenting findings and participating in cross-functional discussions.

This position is primarily on-site in a product quality laboratory and office setting, with at least two days per week in the office and potential flexibility for one remote day. The role involves frequent hands-on work in a lab environment, including cooking, food preparation, and handling of various grocery products across the store. You will use standard lab equipment, kitchen equipment, and computer-based tools such as the Microsoft Office suite and, when applicable, Smartsheet or similar platforms.

The environment supports collaborative work with cross-functional teams and offers opportunities to perform root cause analysis, test a wide range of products, and dive deeply into how to improve product quality. Dress is expected to be appropriate for a lab and food preparation setting, which may include practical, clean, and safe attire consistent with food safety and laboratory standards.

This is a Contract position based out of Austin, TX.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $19.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered…