R&D/QA Lab Technician

Simple Mills • Chicago, IL

22h • $55,000 - $65,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The R&D/QA Lab Technician will be a critical role in Chicago. In this hands-on role, you will support the development, testing, and continuous improvement of our food products and ingredients. You’ll play a critical part in benchtop evaluation, lab organization and maintenance, and ingredient management while working closely with Food Scientists, QA Managers and cross-functional partners to help maintain high-quality products in market.
The position will report to the R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation.

Requirements

• 0-1 Year experience in a laboratory, test kitchen, or similar setting preferred; must have completed at least one internship.
• A working knowledge of food safety protocols and proper handling procedures is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related technical field required.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Outlook.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize competing tasks and timelines.
• Self-starter with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• A personal connection to the Simple Mills mission and a fervent desire to improve the food system to help people and the planet thrive.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) food industry or culinary/kitchen environments is preferred.
• Familiarity with R&D data tools (e.g., TraceGains, Electronic Lab Notebooks).

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning and execution of benchtop testing as assigned by the Food Scientists and Managers
• Prepare, test, and evaluate food and ingredient samples using established methods and equipment.
• Maintain accurate lab records, data sheets, and documentation for ongoing projects.
• Coordinate and execute experiments with attention to detail and adherence to food safety standards.
• Support basic troubleshooting of equipment and escalate issues as needed.
• Own and maintain ingredient inventory, sample tracking, and lab cleanliness.
• Order lab supplies and manage organization of raw materials and tools.
• Lead daily upkeep of lab workflows, including equipment maintenance and process documentation.
• Contribute to improvements in lab operations and workflow efficiencies.
• Participate in team meetings to share results, learnings, and recommendations.
• Use software systems (e.g., Microsoft Excel, TraceGains) for data tracking and inventory control.
• Perform other projects as assigned
• Evaluate QA retains from production against specifications
• Maintain consistent records of testing
• Identify trends to communicate to QA Managers
• Become Subject Matter Expert on products in production; proficiency in the unique sensory attributes of Simple Mills products
• Maintain retain inventory
• Performs other projects as assigned

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: This role offers a salary range of $55,000 to $65,000
• Annual Bonus Opportunity: Eligible for an annual bonus as part of our commitment to recognizing team contributions and company success.
• Holistic Benefits: A variety of health, financial, and wellness programs to help you feel your best and plan for the future.
• Time to Recharge: We believe your best work comes when you have space to rest, refocus, and show up fully—our time off approach is built with that in mind.
• Everyday Well-Being: From lifestyle perks to innovation shipments, we find meaningful ways to support you in living simply and feeling well.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level