Original job description
Job Details: Level: Experienced, Job Location: Tulkoff Canada R&D ULC - Etobicoke, ON, Position Type: Full Time, Education Level: 4 Year Degree, Salary Range: Undisclosed, Job Shift: Day, Position Summary:
The R&D Specialist plays an important role in supporting product development, innovation, and quality within the R&D team. This position is responsible for preparing and evaluating sauce formulations and customer samples, conducting laboratory testing, maintaining an organized and well-controlled R&D environment, and supporting documentation and regulatory activities as needed.
The R&D Specialist works closely with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations teams to ensure samples and testing are completed accurately and on time. This role requires strong attention to detail, good organization, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Prepare and organize sauce and food product samples for internal testing, customer evaluations, and product development activities.
Follow established formulations, procedures, and test methods accurately and consistently.
Conduct laboratory testing and analysis of R&D samples, including pH, Brix, viscosity, water activity, salt, and other applicable measurements.
Support shelf-life studies, stability testing, and sensory evaluations, including sample preparation, testing, data collection, and documentation.
Maintain accurate, complete, and organized records of formulations, test results, samples, and other R&D activities.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe R&D laboratory, including proper labeling, storage, inventory, and handling of ingredients and samples.
Ensure ingredients, samples, and finished products are properly identified, dated, and stored under the appropriate conditions.
Support preparation and shipment of customer samples, ensuring samples are prepared accurately, packaged appropriately, and delivered on schedule.
Work closely with R&D team members to support product development trials, reformulations, and process improvement activities.
Support plant trials and production activities when required, including sample collection, testing, and documentation.
Communicate test results, observations, and potential issues clearly and promptly to the appropriate team members.
Follow all company policies and procedures related to food safety, workplace safety, quality, sanitation, and confidentiality.
Maintain and operate laboratory equipment properly and report equipment issues or maintenance needs.
Assist with other R&D projects and activities as required.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in food science, Nutrition, Food Technology, or a related discipline.
Minimum 1 year of experience in an R&D laboratory, food manufacturing, or related food industry environment.
Basic understanding of food safety principles, HACCP, GMPs, and applicable food safety programs.
Hands-on experience with basic food laboratory testing and laboratory equipment is an asset.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in testing and documentation.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Good written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations teams.
Ability to follow established procedures while recognizing and communicating deviations or potential issues.
Comfortable working in a hands-on laboratory and food manufacturing environment.
Flexible and willing to adapt to changing priorities, schedules, and departmental needs.
