Research and Development Technician

As an R&D Technician, you will play a key role in supporting our Research & Development team by assisting with product formulation, conducting laboratory tests, and ensuring the seamless execution of product evaluations. Your contributions will help drive innovation and maintain the highest standards of quality in our beverages. This in-office position, and this person will be expected to be in our Sebastopol office 5 days a week. ********This is also an hourly Temp to Hire position.

Here's what you'll do:

• Assist in the benchtop preparation of new and existing product formulations for R&D testing and tastings.
• Manage the shipment and receipt of lab samples, ensuring proper tracking, storage, and handling.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment by following safety and quality protocols.
• Support the R&D team with administrative tasks, such as data entry, sample organization, and preparing materials for meetings or presentations.
• Conduct and document laboratory tests (e.g., pH, Brix, caffeine, and other key attributes) and analyze results to support product development.
• Assist in sensory evaluations, accurately recording and compiling test results to inform decision-making.
• Evaluate new ingredients and suppliers, compiling relevant data to support formulation discussions.
• Perform regular inventory checks for lab supplies and ingredients, ensuring availability for testing.
• Assist in product shelf-life studies, documenting stability data and identifying any changes over time.
• Maintain, calibrate, and coordinate the ordering of laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and functionality.

Here's what you'll bring to the table:

• Associate's degree in Science, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field (preferred).
• 1-2 years of laboratory experience and/or 2-3 years of experience in a food or beverage kitchen environment.
• Strong understanding of food science, chemistry, or biology.
• Prior experience in the beverage industry is a plus.
• Ability to conduct laboratory tests, analyze data, and present findings clearly.
• Experience with data entry systems and maintaining accurate records.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Familiarity with laboratory data management software or Quality Systems (preferred).
• Strong analytical skills, including the ability to interpret data and troubleshoot testing discrepancies.
• Comfortable with mathematical concepts such as proportions, ratios, percentages, and unit conversions.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.

What we offer: