R&D Application Technician

Ardent Mills•Denver, CO

2d•$26 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

The R&D Application Technician supports Ardent Mills' Research & Development and Product Development teams by planning, preparing, and executing product application trials, ingredient evaluations, and customer-focused technical projects. This role works closely with scientists, product developers, milling teams, and cross-functional partners to assess ingredient functionality, product performance, and process optimization across a variety of grain-, legume and seed-based applications.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory practices, product development processes, and scientific methodology.
Understanding of ingredient functionality and food application testing, preferably within grain-based products.
Strong attention to detail and ability to organize and manage technical information.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Demonstrated organizational, project management, and time management skills.
Strong sense of urgency and commitment to delivering high-quality results.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and data management systems.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within cross-functional teams.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical report writing and presentation of results.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in food product development, application testing, bakery science, grain science, or a related R&D environment.
Experience with pilot plant operations, baking applications, or ingredient functionality testing.
Knowledge of cereal grains, flour functionality, and bakery product development.
Experience supporting customer-facing technical projects or innovation programs.

Responsibilities

Work safely in laboratory, pilot plant, and bakery environments while adhering to all Ardent Mills Food Safety and EH&S policies.
Support the planning, setup, execution, and documentation of application trials, product evaluations, and development projects.
Prepare and evaluate grain-based products, including flour, bakery mixes, dough systems, baked goods, and other customer-relevant applications.
Assess ingredient functionality, processing characteristics, and finished product performance using established methods and protocols.
Accurately generate, record, analyze, and communicate technical results and observations to project teams and stakeholders.
Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory, bakery, pilot plant (limited support at Third Parties if needed), and processing equipment.
Maintain detailed electronic records, databases, laboratory notebooks, and technical reports in accordance with company standards.
Collaborate with R&D scientists, GQR team members, quality teams, operations, and commercial partners to support innovation and customer-focused initiatives.
Assist in the development, validation, and continuous improvement of application methods, testing protocols, and product evaluation techniques.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while managing inventories of ingredients, supplies, and consumables.