R&D Technician II

Basic American Foods•Blackfoot, ID

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The R&D Technician II supports the development and improvement of products, packaging, and processes. Working with the Research & Development team, this hands-on position conducts testing, operates equipment, analyzes results, and supports new product and process ideas. Work takes place in laboratory, kitchen, pilot plant, and production environments, combining technical expertise, problem-solving, and independent project work.

Requirements

Associate's degree from a two-year college or technical school, or 1–3 years of related experience and/or training.
Strong critical-thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, including familiarity with A3 problem-solving methods.
Basic mechanical aptitude and experience operating food processing or similar industrial equipment.
Ability to perform laboratory testing, analyze results, and accurately document findings.
Proficiency with Excel, Outlook, Teams, and Word, and ability to work with systems such as Optiva, Red Jade, and IFS.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including professional email communication and serving as a point of contact for customer complaints when needed.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate, reliable data.
Ability to collaborate effectively with project teams and provide technical support.
Flexibility to work outside normal business hours, including different shifts or weekends, when project needs require.
Ability to travel up to 25% to support projects.
Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds, with reasonable accommodations as applicable.

Nice To Haves

Forklift certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and execute R&D testing for new and existing products, packaging, and process technologies, including laboratory, pilot plant, and production plant trials.
Maintain accurate test documentation, including laboratory records, experimental results, formulations, analytical findings, and related data.
Operate and maintain pilot plant equipment while ensuring proper housekeeping, food safety, and compliance with established procedures.
Support R&D Project Managers with research and investigations involving equipment, technologies, ingredients, materials, vendors, and product development activities.
Procure, organize, and manage ingredients and materials for R&D projects and testing.
Coordinate and maintain product shelf-life studies, including preparing samples, conducting tastings, documenting results, and maintaining temperature-controlled storage areas.
Manage inventory and order supplies, including shipping, cleaning, and office supplies, as well as equipment.
Perform laboratory testing and product analysis to support research, product development, and quality objectives.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams while independently managing assigned projects and priorities.
Support food safety initiatives and maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
Follow BAF safety policies, uphold SQF Food Safety Code principles, and promptly report food safety, quality, workplace safety, or plant security concerns.