Job Title: Product Development Assistant

Location: Plano, TX

Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour

Purpose of the Job:
To support the execution of customer’s product formulation and sensory and consumer science initiatives that drive innovation, product improvements, brand maintenance, and quality for both US and international markets. This role involves managing product development work streams, executing sensory tests, collecting data, and considering costing and financial aspects. The individual will perform both lab tasks and administrative duties, alternating between product preparation in a lab setting and office tasks.

Job Functions:
Ensure compliance with customer safety protocols and procedures.
Support product development and operations in testing new ingredients and developing new products.
Assist in designing, executing, and summarizing sensory and consumer product research, including developing questionnaires and programming surveys in sensory software.
Prepare products for experimentation and testing by:
Creating detailed testing plans with timelines.
Scheduling production in the lab and test kitchen.
Acquiring necessary ingredients and packaging materials.
Coordinating sample production, storage, and submission for product cuttings and sensory testing.
Documenting all experimental procedures and results in a laboratory notebook (digital or physical).
Present findings to both small and large groups.
Collaborate with management on locking formulas and updating templates for future use.
Maintain cleanliness and organization in the lab to support efficient operations.
Manage ingredient inventory and oversee supply ordering to ensure availability of required materials.
Maintain accurate lab inventory records and ensure timely replenishment of supplies.
Oversee the maintenance and calibration of lab and pilot-scale equipment for operational readiness.
Conduct simple cost analysis on product formulations to ensure compliance with cost targets and profit/loss expectations.
People Leadership:
Direct Reports: None
Education:
A student pursuing a degree in Food Science & Technology or a related field is preferred but not required.
Experience and Competencies:
A relentless commitment to safety and maintaining a safe work environment.
Strong ability to execute bench work flawlessly.
Proactive, reliable, and self-motivated.
Capable of managing priority tasks with minimal supervision.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Initiative and creativity in problem-solving.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Proficient in interfacing positively with various technical functions.
Highly organized, with the ability to capture work details and highlight unexpected results.
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Outlook (email/calendar).
Flexibility to work various hours.
Key Challenges:
Managing and learning a wide variety of product characteristics across key ingredient categories, including Dough, Cheese, Sauce, Proteins, and Vegetables.
Balancing multiple project tasks to support workgroup needs while managing time and expectations.
Effectively communicating conflicts in requests.
Working in a laboratory/kitchen environment, managing ingredients, raw materials, and equipment.
Maintaining strong working relationships across different functions.
 

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