Lab Technician

Job Title:

Lab Technician - Flavor Laboratory

Job Description

This role focuses on compounding, spray drying, handling reactions, and preparing sample requests within a flavor laboratory. The position is ideal for someone who is highly motivated to learn and advance in the flavor industry, with a strong interest in pursuing a 5-7 year certification process to become a flavor chemist. You will work closely with chemists and the applications team, gaining hands-on experience with both liquid and powder products across a wide range of flavor applications.

Responsibilities

+ Compound and mix different ingredients to create batches for various end products, including both liquids and powders.

+ Operate a spray dryer safely and effectively with both liquid and powder formulations.

+ Handle basic laboratory reactions and processes in support of flavor development projects.

+ Prepare, fill, and organize sample requests for internal and external stakeholders.

+ Restock and maintain laboratory supplies to ensure the lab remains organized and fully equipped.

+ Perform sample preparation and batch preparation activities according to established procedures.

+ Collaborate closely with chemists and the applications team to support ongoing projects and learn new processes.

+ Apply basic and above-average mathematics skills to measurements, calculations, and formulations.

+ Follow laboratory protocols, safety guidelines, and documentation requirements.

+ Actively seek opportunities to learn new techniques and processes within the flavor lab to progress toward flavor chemist certification.

Essential Skills

+ Minimum of 6 months of experience in a laboratory setting, which may include academic laboratory experience.

+ Demonstrated laboratory skills, including handling equipment, following procedures, and maintaining a clean work area.

+ Above-average basic mathematics skills acquired through schooling, with the ability to perform measurements and calculations accurately.

+ Ability to mix and compound different ingredients for both liquid and solid (powder) formulations.

+ Comfort working with compounding, sample preparation, and batch preparation processes.

+ Strong motivation to learn and advance in the flavor industry, with clear interest in becoming a flavor chemist.

+ High interest in flavors and flavor applications across different products.

+ Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate with technicians and chemists.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ College degree in chemistry or food science is preferred.

+ Experience in food science, chemistry, or related disciplines is beneficial.

+ Prior experience with compounding ingredients and preparing samples and batches is ideal.

+ Interest in gaining exposure to multiple product lines such as coffee, meats, pharmaceuticals, and various beverages.

+ Strong initiative and willingness to engage in a 5-7 year flavor chemist certification process.

+ Ability to collaborate with an applications team and adapt to new processes and technologies.

Work Environment

The role is based in a social and collaborative flavor department environment, with frequent communication among technicians, chemists, and other team members. The dress code is casual, supporting a comfortable and approachable atmosphere. The standard shift runs Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Employees receive a full benefits package and a 6% 401(k) match following 90 days of employment.

There is potential for a raise upon becoming a permanent employee, as well as a scheduling perk where, once permanent, employees may have either Monday or Friday off every third week by taking a half-hour lunch period. The position offers significant exposure to a wide range of flavor products and applications, providing a strong learning environment for those interested in building a long-term career in the flavor industry.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Westwood, NJ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $24.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject…