Food Science Laboratory Technician

Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America, Inc.•Itasca, IL

9d•$27 - $28

About The Position

The Food Innovation Team at Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America is seeking an organized and detail-oriented Food Science Laboratory Technician. This role requires providing technical support to the team of food scientists and culinary professionals who work with our diverse portfolio of food ingredients across a variety of applications. The individual will be responsible for: preparing standardized food ingredient product formulations; organization, maintenance, and upkeep of laboratory materials, equipment, and ingredients; maintenance of SDS and ingredient databases; general management of laboratory cleanliness.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in science-based curriculum, or associate degree with laboratory experience.
Strong math and science-related technical skills
Transfer scientific knowledge to practical applications
Able to take directions
Will be directed by senior peers
Must be safety oriented
May be asked to travel occasionally
Must have independent means of transportation
Must be able to lift 30 pounds
Must be able to stand for an extended period

Nice To Haves

Experience in a food, chemistry, or pharmaceutical laboratory strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform and document processes, formulas, ingredients, and results related to production tests, samples and product evaluations consistent with Ajinomoto standard operating procedures.
In partnership with, and under supervision of R&D team members, prepare standardized product formulations as directed in support of key projects or demonstrations across our product portfolio.
Setting up ingredient and food sample cuttings and assisting in evaluation. Assisting with washing laboratory utensils, dishes, and glassware.
Maintenance and organization of laboratory ingredients, materials, equipment, sample inventory, and database system. Coordination of equipment maintenance and waste disposal.
Prepare product samples upon request, repackage as necessary.
Assist in entering raw materials into database system (or other formula management database system).
Assist in conducting and participating in sensory evaluations of new products in collaboration with the sensory department. Participate on sensory panels helping other technical personnel with their work.
Assist in conducting and participating in shelf-life studies for Ajinomoto products following established shelf-life protocols.
Manage and advance short-term projects under the supervision of more senior staff.
Perform all work in accordance with Ajinomoto GMP, Allergen, and Quality Programs and participate in annual training for these programs.
Other duties as assigned.