Research and Innovation Assistant

Aroma Joe's is one of the nation's leading handcrafted beverage chains and is headquartered in Scarborough, Maine. This rapidly growing brand currently has 134 locations along the East Coast. Aroma Joe's is a local destination for hand‑crafted coffee and espresso drinks, unique infused blends, signature AJ's RUSH Energy Drinks, and a variety of all‑day food offerings. Aroma Joe's serves positive energy in a friendly and upbeat environment by focusing daily on the customer, the community, and the cup.

The same passion and upbeat attitude can be found at our corporate offices. Aroma Joe's is a group of hardworking and experienced professionals who are driven by the excitement of building our brand. Our team enjoys comprehensive employee benefits, company-sponsored social outings, and an amazing culture! Giving back to the community is a key part of who we are. We participate in community and charitable events throughout the year with a focus on positively impacting people.

The Research & Innovation Assistant supports product development by preparing and testing samples, coordinating supplier materials, maintaining project documentation, and assisting with consumer learning and execution checks. This role also helps manage the R&I Test Kitchen and Coffeehouse through inventory control, equipment coordination, cleaning routines, and general administrative support.

• Support the Product Development Process:
  • Prepares samples for bench development, cooking or preparation instruction, kitchen testing, data validation and product cuttings.
  • Coordinates supplier sample receiving and shipment of samples.
  • Stress test potential products and equipment in R&I Test Kitchen.
  • Organizes product for cuttings: sample presentation or sensory evaluation with internal cross‑functional team members.
  • Assists in the planning and execution of Consumer Learning Tests (CLT).
  • Assist with complete quality assurance and quality control duties as necessary.
  • Update project dashboards, project folders, notes, and sample logs as needed.
  • Supports cross‑functional teams as needed.
  • Participate in and collect data from Checks For Execution (CFEs) completed on new products.
• R&I Test Kitchen and Coffeehouse Maintenance:
  • Inventory control including ordering, reconciling, receiving, and shipping ingredients and materials.
  • Coordinate equipment maintenance.
  • Maintains cleanliness – completes daily, weekly and monthly cleaning checklists.
• General Administration:
  • Travel occasionally as necessary to other locations and/or trade shows.