R&D Lab Assistant at Broadview, IL in Broadview, IL

Job description

• The R&D Lab Assistant provides critical support to the Research & Development team, including Scientists and Chefs, by assisting with sample preparation, analytical testing, inventory management, shipping activities, and laboratory operations. This role helps ensure efficient product development, accurate recordkeeping, and compliance with safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare product samples for internal and external customers.
• Maintain inventory of raw materials, ingredients, and work-in-progress materials used for sample preparation.
• Pull, package, and ship raw materials and finished goods as requested.
• Conduct analytical testing on products and samples as assigned.
• Verify laboratory scales and analytical equipment and maintain required calibration documentation.
• Assist with packaging and shipment of product samples and laboratory materials.
• Maintain accurate records including batch sheets, analytical data logs, shipment records, and inventory documentation.
• Procure laboratory supplies, ingredients, packaging materials, and other items necessary for laboratory operations.
• Support day-to-day laboratory organization, cleanliness, sanitation, and maintenance.
• Provide backup support to R&D laboratories at other Newly Weds Foods locations as needed.
• Pick up and deliver materials required by the R&D department, including ingredients, samples, supplies, equipment, and finished products.
• Drive to vendors, production facilities, warehouses, and retail locations as required.
• Assist Scientists and Chefs with product development projects and other departmental initiatives.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.
• Promote and maintain a safe and clean work environment.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, behaviors, accidents, incidents, and near misses.
• Complete required safety, quality, and training documentation accurately and timely.
• Participate in accident and incident investigations when necessary.
• Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), including sanitation, hygiene, attire, and waste disposal requirements.
• Support and execute the company's Food Safety Plan and quality initiatives to ensure safe, high-quality products.

Requirements

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to interact professionally with employees at all levels of the organization.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory practices and equipment preferred.
• Ability to utilize Microsoft Office applications, SharePoint, and email systems.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions with attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Ability to guide, train, and communicate effectively with others.

Skills

Required

• Organizational skills
• Time management
• Communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work independently
• Collaboration
• Microsoft Office applications
• SharePoint
• Email systems